National Capital Wing
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Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Diversity is a composite of individual characteristics, experiences, and abilities that are consistent with the CAP mission and core values and reflective of the communities in which we serve.

Civil Air Patrol diversity includes but is not limited to personal life experiences, geographic background, socioeconomic background, cultural knowledge, educational background, work background, language abilities, physical abilities, philosophical and spiritual perspectives, race, color, sex, age, religion (creed), national origin (ancestry), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, marital status, and military or veteran status.

Equity is centering efforts to remove any barriers that limit access and advancement. Providing the resources and support that individuals need to be successful. Eliminating existing disparities so that every person can contribute fully. Ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds and experiences are engaged in decision-making processes.

The difference between equality and equity:

  • Equality is evenly distributed access to the resources and opportunities necessary for a safe, healthy, and successful life, regardless of identity.
  • Equity acknowledges there are historically underserved and underrepresented populations within society and that fairness regarding these unbalanced conditions is needed.

Inclusion is the process of creating a culture where all members of the organization are encouraged to make their fullest contributions to the success of the group, and where there are no unnecessary barriers to success.

Civil Air Patrol diversity and inclusion efforts complement but remain separate and distinct from CAP’s Equal Opportunity compliance programs and activities.

CAP Nondiscrimination Policy

CAP provides an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members and ensures that educational, membership, and operational decisions are based on each individual’s abilities and qualifications. Consistent with this practice and applicable laws, it is CAP policy that no member shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination with respect to accessibility to any CAP program or activity on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, marital status, military or veteran status.

However, each case is subject to applicable qualifications and ability standards for the CAP program or activity concerned. It is Civil Air Patrol policy that no applicant meeting CAP’s minimum age requirement will be denied membership in CAP on the basis of any of the foregoing characteristics. This policy is intended to ensure that only relevant factors are considered and that equitable and consistent standards of conduct and performance are applied.

Col J.D. Ellis, former National Capital Wing commander, discusses the CAP Nondiscrimination Policy.

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