Air Force Plans Big Pride Celebrations on Bases

The Department of the Air Force has recently authorized its bases to hold celebrations in honor of “Pride Month,” marking another step towards inclusivity within the U.S. military.

The announcement follows a recent controversy surrounding the U.S. Navy’s use of a drag queen for recruitment purposes. While the move towards recognition and celebration of LGBTQ+ rights is applauded by some, it has drawn criticism from certain lawmakers and conservatives who question the allocation of taxpayer funds and view it as a divisive agenda.

Embracing Pride Month: On May 3, the Department of the Air Force issued a memo reaffirming the branch’s recognition of June as “Pride Month.” The memo grants Air Force installation commanders the authority to plan and conduct appropriate activities on bases to commemorate the occasion. The memo highlights the progress made towards inclusivity, acknowledges the contributions of LGBTQ+ Americans, and recognizes the challenges they have faced and overcome.

Organizing “Pride Month” Celebrations: Efforts to organize Air Force-sanctioned “Pride Month” celebrations are already underway, with events being planned at various bases. Recently, a flyer promoting LGBT-themed events at Robins Air Force Base in Georgia was obtained by the office of Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas. The events listed on the flyer include a “Pride Game Night,” a Unity in Diversity Color Run, and a panel discussion titled “Our History, Our Time!”

Controversy and Criticism: Critics, including Rep. Chip Roy, have expressed concern over the allocation of taxpayer dollars for such celebrations and view it as a divisive agenda. Roy suggested that House Republicans withdraw their support from this year’s National Defense Authorization Act to halt what he perceives as embarrassing events organized by the Department of Defense (DOD).