MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (July 14, 2006) -- Although equal opportunity is the standard for how people should be treated in the military, some Marines may not know exactly how it works. Not knowing what is and is not appropriate is how people become offenders.

Headquarters Marine Corps states the purpose of equal opportunity is, “to prohibit discrimination in employment because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin or physical or mental disability and to promote the full realization of equal employment opportunity through continuing affirmative efforts,” according to Marine Corps Order P5354.1D.

While that seems to be a clear-cut definition, there are still many gray areas, which is usually where Marines get themselves in trouble.

Issues such as the use of inappropriate language, listening to questionable music or wearing clothing that may be construed as offensive are big problems, said Gunnery Sgt. Clayton J. Carson, equal opportunity advisor for 2nd MLG.

If something makes a person feel discriminated against or offended, they have the right to report it as a violation of their equal opportunity.

“Say your roommate was listening to music on a stereo in the room, and you felt the lyrics were offensive, you could report him,” said Carson. “At the same time, your music, even if totally opposite than his, could be offensive to him.”

The use of offensive language is another violation, if not the most reported violation regarding equal opportunity, said Carson.

“If someone says something to you, near you or anywhere in your proximity and you could hear it and were offended by it, that would be a violation in the EO policy,” he said.

However, a Marine does not have to commit an act to become an offender.

If a violation is witnessed by an innocent bystander, he has a responsibility to address, correct or report the behavior to his chain of command immediately, said Carson.

If a witness ignores to correct or report the act of discrimination, he may be held accountable and punished the same as the Marines who committed the act.

“EO has always been everyone’s responsibility, but it seems nowadays so many acts go unnoticed” said Carson. “In my opinion, if all leaders were good leaders, there would be no need for the equal opportunity policy.”

“Every leader must take appropriate action to create a combat ready environment, which ensures each and every Marine and Sailor has the opportunity to reach their full potential while being treated with dignity and respect,” Brig. Gen. James A. Kessler, commanding general, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. “I am committed to establishing a positive command climate, which is free of discrimination and sexual harassment.”

Overall, recognizing the fact the Marine Corps is an extremely diverse organization, equal opportunity minimizes the amount of discrimination taking place, Carson said. Every Marine deserves to be treated fairly, and EO helps remind others of that.

Ellie