1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The forced retirement of U.S. Army Lieutenant General Telita Crosland, the head of the military's health agency and one of the most senior Black female officers in the Army, is concerning. Despite her exemplary 32-year career, she was abruptly removed without any given reason. This action appears to be part of a broader effort to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the Department of Defense, which are critical for addressing longstanding inequities and promoting opportunities for underrepresented groups. I urge you to take action to reinstate Lt. Gen. Crosland and protect diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within the military. These programs are vital for fostering an inclusive environment that values the contributions of all servicemembers, regardless of their race, gender, or background. Pushing out highly qualified and experienced leaders like Lt. Gen. Crosland undermines the military's effectiveness and erodes public trust in our armed forces. The military should reflect the diversity of the nation it serves and uphold the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination. Terminating leaders and dismantling initiatives aimed at promoting these values is a disservice to our servicemembers and a detriment to our national security interests. I implore you to take immediate steps to reverse this concerning trend and ensure that the military remains a model of inclusivity and meritocracy.