Division 19 Stands Against Racism
30 June 2020
The Society for Military Psychology (Division 19 of the American Psychological Association; APA) explicitly stands against racism in all forms. The repeated killing of unarmed Black People and other People of Color is abhorrent and unacceptable. Systemic racism, violence, inequity and injustice must end. Division 19 stands with racially diverse communities in all components of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), including Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) service members, veterans, family members, military psychologists, and civilian professionals, as well as with all BIPOC communities across our nation.
Division 19 believes we are stronger together. This means that now, more than ever, we need to not only support and care for one another but also work together to enact positive change. We will continue to promote human welfare through advocacy, education, research, and training. As military psychologists, we know the value of diversity, and we acknowledge White Privilege exists. It is not enough for allies to say “We see you” – we need to ensure voices are heard and true inclusion is practiced.
Our Diversity in the Military Committee is working closely with our Executive Committee, Student Affairs Committee, Communications Committee, Membership Committee, and members of the Student Leadership Program to address issues of racism and to act immediately and for the long-term. We are reaching out to BIPOC members to ensure they are heard, without placing the burden of responsibility on them to enact change.
Division 19 is working to develop a podcast series focusing on diversity-related issues, as well as a webinar series for professional diversity training. We are collaborating with other APA divisions and chapters to create professional panels addressing racism and the experience of BIPOC service members, veterans, family members, military psychologists, and civilian professionals.
Racism, discrimination and marginalization have no place in our Society. By listening, collaborating, and taking positive action, we can and will be stronger together.