Donna Bryson, a seasoned journalist, delves into the challenges faced by Black cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. The journey begins on the marble pavers of the Terrazzo, where cadets like Tusajigwe Owens navigate the narrow strips in their first year to instill discipline and attention to detail.
Owens, one of 112 Black cadets in the class of 2022, emphasizes the importance of success for oneself and the team. However, the reality is stark – the graduation rate for Black cadets lags behind the overall rate, reflecting a wider diversity gap in the Air Force’s officer corps.
Recent legal battles over race-conscious admissions at universities have put pressure on military training academies, with the Supreme Court exempting them from the ruling to maintain diversity in the armed forces. Organizations like Students for Fair Admissions continue to challenge military admissions policies, raising concerns about the future composition of the officer corps.
Visiting the Air Force Academy for the first sustained reporting since the early 2000s, Reuters explores the complex dynamics of race within the institution. Interviews with current and former Black cadets shed light on the challenges they face, from a legacy of racism to the academy’s emphasis on tradition and hierarchy.
Despite the obstacles, cadets like Owens and Marcus Berrette remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence. As they embark on their journey at the academy, they carry with them the legacy of service and leadership instilled by their families.
The road ahead is not easy, with biases and discrimination still present within the institution. However, as former cadet Daryl Wells notes, confronting these issues head-on is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for future generations of cadets. The Air Force Academy’s commitment to diversity and success for all cadets remains a work in progress, with ongoing efforts to address racial disparities and ensure equal opportunities for all who serve.