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A message from League of United Latin American Citizens

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View as web page:
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LULAC: Army’s Actions At Ft. Hood Affirm Vanessa Guillen’s Life
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Nation’s Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Calls Firings and
Suspensions for Misconduct a Step Forward

Washington, DC - The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) calls
today’s announcement of disciplinary actions by the U.S. Army significant and
important progress towards justice as well as lasting change within the military
branch that Pvt. Vanessa Guillen loved and served up until her death.

“Today’s announcement by the Secretary of the Army and the independent panel that
was reviewing the Vanessa Guillen case and abuses and criminal activity at Fort
Hood is a major step in the right direction,” says Domingo Garcia, LULAC National
President. “LULAC has been fighting for the men and women in uniform such as
Vanessa Guillen to make sure that when they serve, they are protected, mentored
and motivated to serve their country,” he added.

Fourteen firings and suspensions related to the investigation at Ft. Hood were
announced today by Army Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy. They include
commanders and lower-level leaders. These dismissals are described in a 143-page
report just released by the Army. Also, included are more than 70 recommendations
that center on rebuilding trust in the service branch with the ranks and the
community.

“LULAC pledges to the families of communities of color and all communities who
entrust their loved ones to the Army and our military, that never again will
their sons and daughters have to suffer, alone and in silence, the mistreatment
and danger from within their own ranks. We stand united with them and their
families to ensure their voices are heard at the highest level and their concerns
are addressed,” says Sindy Benavides, LULAC National Chief Executive Officer.
“For months, we have worked with the Army leadership to create an independent
process to investigate matters such as those which led up to the death of Vanessa
Guillen and other soldiers at Ft. Hood. LULAC has fought during the past 91-years
for the civil rights and dignity of every individual who lives in our country and
these rights are not forfeited when he or she puts on a military uniform to
defend this nation,” she added.

Members of the Army independent review commission stated that while its members’
work focused on Ft. Hood, many of the determinations and recommendations may now
be considered for implementation Army-wide. This includes more complete
assessments of the “total soldier” to detect and address any character traits
which could lead to acts of misconduct or violence. Also, that military leaders
must act faster and more decisively when a soldier goes missing to determine why
and take appropriate steps.

Garcia adds, “LULAC looks forward to continuing to work with the Army to make
sure that the changes are made that stop the sexual harassment and abuse of our
soldiers in the military. Also, that any officer or individual involved is held
accountable and that the Army reflects the diversity of today’s America. Vanessa
Guillen’s life and her tragic death have hopefully motivated and are bringing
about the necessary changes in the Army so that families can feel comfortable
when their young men and women serve in our armed forces. LULAC has requested a
follow-up meeting with the Secretary of the Army at the Pentagon and will
continue to monitor the progress of their actions.”.

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About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and
oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans
and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1,000
councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and
advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of
today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org [ [link removed] ] .







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