Modern Military Joins Coalition of Civil and Human Rights Organizations in Opposing Harmful FY26 NDAA Anti-DEI Provisions

December 10, 2025

Modern Military Association of America has joined a broad coalition of civil rights, human rights, military, and veterans organizations in signing a letter to Congress opposing harmful provisions included in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA).

These provisions would dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and other efforts to promote equal opportunity within the Department of Defense and across the U.S. military, and would prohibit such efforts moving forward. If enacted, they would jeopardize the health and well-being of service members, undermine recruitment and retention, and weaken overall military readiness.

Equal Opportunity Is Essential to Military Strength

The strength of the U.S. military lies not only in its size, but in its ability to draw on the talents, skills, and lived experiences of Americans from all backgrounds. A diverse force is more agile, innovative, and prepared to meet the complex challenges of modern warfare. Military leaders and veterans have long affirmed that advancing equal opportunity is mission imperative.

Former Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Gilbert Cisneros, Jr. testified before Congress that investments in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are a “force multiplier,” emphasizing that a combat-credible force must be lethal, resilient, and reflective of the nation it serves. A group of 35 senior former military leaders echoed this conclusion, noting that units diverse at all levels are more cohesive, collaborative, and effective.

Understanding the Complexity of the NDAA

Modern Military recognizes that the National Defense Authorization Act is a complex and far-reaching piece of legislation that shapes nearly every aspect of military life. Our decision to join this collective call to Congress reflects a clear understanding that policies do not exist in silos. The removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives has direct and disproportionate consequences for LGBTQ+ service members, as well as for those who live at the intersection of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, and other marginalized identities.

Efforts to advance equal opportunity, whether labeled as DEI, civil rights enforcement, or force readiness, are deeply interconnected. Weakening or eliminating one set of protections inevitably undermines others. Standing firm on human rights across all areas of the military is not optional; it is essential to cohesion, trust in leadership, and mission success. Supporting these principles consistently, even when the advocacy landscape is imperfect, reflects Modern Military’s commitment to the long-term strength and integrity of the force.

Our Call to Congress

Supporting the military means supporting all who serve. Funding national defense must not come at the expense of the cohesion, readiness, and well-being of the force.

Modern Military urges Congress to reject these harmful FY26 NDAA provisions and to reaffirm a commitment to equal opportunity, dignity, and respect for every service member and military family. Enacting these measures would weaken military readiness, undermine national security, and betray the nation’s promise that all who are willing to serve can do so without discrimination.

Modern Military is proud to stand with our coalition partners in calling on Congress to oppose these provisions and protect the strength and integrity of the U.S. military.

Read the full letter here.