Lieutenant General Tim Keating The New Zealand Defence Force says being ranked the most inclusive military in the world has come as a "pleasant surprise". Netherlands think tank the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies says it's a world-beater in its integration of lgbt service members in armed forces. Chief of the NZDF Lieutenant General Tim Keating says it's an equal opportunity employer which has always valued the diversity of its workforce. "We do not discriminate against any of our Regular Force, Reserve Force, or civilian members based on their sexual orientation or gender identity," he says. "The NZDF values diversity and recognises the benefits to the organisation of having a diverse and inclusive workplace. The diversity of our workplace reflects the composition of New Zealand society as well as the openness and respect that New Zealanders have for people of different backgrounds. "We believe that a diverse workplace promotes equity and enhances productivity. Having an inclusive environment that embraces people's individual differences provides opportunities for our personnel to achieve their full potential." New Zealand's ban on lgbt people serving in the military was lifted two decades ago. More recently the group OverWatch was set up as a support network, and made history by marching in the Auckland Pride Parade. The Chief of Defence Force at that time, Lieutenant General Rhys Jones, publicly supported those who took part in the march. It's been revealed today that he also wrote a letter to a member of the public who wrote to express his concern at serving members of the NZDF being allowed to march. He wrote: "As Chief of Defence Force, I granted permission for members of the New Zealand Defence Force marching as part of the parade to wear their uniform. The uniform Defence Force members wear reflects a commitment they have made to serve their country. I have no doubt that during the parade they wore their uniform with pride and the community were able to acknowledge their service." In November 2013, Overwatch held a two-day ‘Pride in Defence Conference' where expert speakers and delegates from within New Zealand and around the world discussed ways to create inclusive cultures within large and complex organisations. At that conference, the NZDF launched an "It Gets Better" video which can be seen below.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 21st February 2014 - 5:35pm