The 22d Marine Expeditionary Unit is fully committed to Equal Opportunity for all Marines and Sailors of this command, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age or national origin. Respect and professional behavior forms the basis of Equal Opportunity, and is the responsibility of all members of this command. Furthermore, all personnel must understand the relationship between mission accomplishment and an environment that promotes mutual respect. Regardless of activity or location, peace or war, the Marines and Sailors of 22d MEU will promote a favorable environment where Equal Opportunity is standard practice.
This command will not tolerate any form of harassment or discriminatory conduct - it is incompatible with our Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment and is destructive to good order and discipline. Behavior of this type impairs unit cohesiveness and threatens our combat readiness. 22d MEU must set the standard. My end state is straightforward: ESTABLISH A CLIMATE WHERE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY IS NO LONGER REQURED – WE ARE TRULY BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN ARMS.
All hands will adhere to the tenants of Equal Opportunity at all times. If you observe, or are a victim of harassment or any inappropriate behavior, utilize the Informal Resolution System (IRS) within your chain of command to attempt to resolve the issue at the lowest level. If no resolution is forthcoming, use the request mast procedure to report formal complaints. Reprisals, intimidation or any further harassment related to such complaints are also unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Personnel engaging in discriminatory activity or harassment will be subject to disciplinary action.
This policy applies to all personnel assigned to 22d MEU, either temporarily or permanently. A copy of this policy shall be briefed to all hands and posted on all read boards and turnover jackets.
J. D. CHRISTMAS
Colonel, USMC
Commanding Officer, 22d MEU