WPAOG Board Holds Special Meeting

Your West Point Association of Graduates (WPAOG) Board recently convened a special meeting on the subject of racism. Led by a professional, outside facilitator, our dialogue prompted genuine retrospection. Discussion ensued on the definitional aspects and inter-connectivity among the various facets of racism, diversity, and inclusion. Perhaps most importantly, it underscored the necessity for policy changes and positive action. From a WPAOG perspective, the meeting was a natural follow-on to the Chairman’s June 15th letter to the Long Gray Line (LGL) on racism. It was a bridge to continued coordinated efforts to acknowledge, identify and eliminate racism in all forms within WPAOG. On-going efforts include a thorough review of all policy documents, concerted efforts to improve diversity in WPAOG governing bodies, and greater attention to inclusion and outreach to all members of our extensive graduate body. While the entire Board and WPAOG leadership is engaged in this work, a designated committee of Board and Advisory Council members and other graduates is providing focused attention to these matters. In support of our mission to Serve West Point and the Long Gray Line, we stand ready to support the Academy when asked to do so by its leaders. Concurrently, we never forget the equally important part of our mission to serve the entire LGL. In that regard, we ask again for your ideas and advice on how to eliminate all forms of racism and advance diversity and inclusion within the WPAOG community. We will listen.