Does diversity make the US military stronger?

Elliot (No)

The belief that “diversity is our strength” is completely incompatible with any military force. Strong military force relies on uniformity. That's why they all wear the same uniforms, are trained the same, and are required to follow orders the same. Highlighting a particular soldier's minority status does not improve their ability to fight effectively. Being considered the same as every other soldier creates a bond of unity, but when the US military starts training according to 'woke' DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, which focus more on a soldier's skin color/ethnicity, sexual identity, or religious beliefs, that togetherness can unravel. 

Meritocracy allows a soldier from a poor, underprivileged family to rise through the ranks simply due to their strategic prowess and leadership qualities. The military must assess soldiers' potential due to the merits alone, not by minority status or any other factor. When people are promoted to leadership positions in the military simply because of a goal to increase diversity, the entire nation is put at risk—especially when split-second decisions can represent the difference between nuclear armageddon and safety for American citizens. It's important to ask if these leadership positions are filled according to who's most qualified or who's most 'diverse?' 

Finally, it's important to consider the logistical problems of supplying certain soldiers with medications associated with their chosen genders. If soldiers are on the front lines and they need to be supplied with ammunition and food, it doesn't make sense to spend additional valuable resources and fuel shipping hormone therapy treatments to trans soldiers. Prioritizing intersectional 'diversity' is a misstep that comes with policy demands that deplete the military of real strength, leaving the US dangerously vulnerable.

Chad (Yes)

Diversity is one of America's greatest strengths. Every system, whether natural or human-made, benefits from diversity. Diversity leads to resilience and allows for adaptation and innovation. 

Our military faces a diversity of threats from various countries and actors worldwide and here at home. Many are novel or unconventional, and few will be fought tomorrow as they are fought today. Now, we are not only fighting tyranny and injustice but preparing for the instability that will be brought about by climate change. 

We are better prepared by having a diverse collection of skill sets, backgrounds, interests, worldviews, beliefs, and other demographic factors. Diversity is a force multiplier. It makes our leaders and their teams more effective and useful. Real situations often benefit from increased diversity. It always leads to better outcomes. The arguments against diversity in the military (including sexual and gender diversity) are based largely on ignorance and fear and not objectivity. 

Our military today is more diverse than at any time in history. Compared to companies and workplaces, the military is the most diverse organization in our country, not by accident but by intentional design. 

Diversity is one of America's greatest strengths, which extends to its military. Over the decades, our military has pushed to increase diversity to make it more effective. Because of all the people who make up our great military, regardless of sex, race, or creed, we can enjoy our freedoms here at home. Instead of debating whether or not certain people belong there, we should thank and support them.