HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Most of us can say we know a lot about our own culture. What about all of the other cultures? How much do we know about them?
This is why the Department of Defense implemented the Special Observances Council at each base. The goal is to raise awareness and increase knowledge about different cultures.
The Hurlburt Field Special Observances Council hosted its first meeting Aug. 10. It marked the first time a council was created at Hurlburt to recognize all observances, rather than one council for each individual observance. An example of an observance is Women’s History Month.
“With this council consisting of a diverse group with members from multiple squadrons on base, it makes it easier to reach the masses,” said Staff Sgt. Brianna Smith, 1st Special Operations Wing Equal Opportunity specialist. “We’re creating events and sub-committees for each special observance recognized by Congress. We will be hosting a diversity day that will take place in the August, September 2018 timeframe to include those not recognized by Congress."
Smith said the different perspectives each person brings to the committee will contribute to the success of the program.
“It enhances the environment for everybody when they learn about different cultures,” said Tech. Sgt. Samantha Telfair, 1st SOW EO NCO-in-charge. “Diversity is a huge part of our Air Force. This is a new opening to a world full of different possibilities, people and cultures. Learning about different cultures will make people feel more welcome and will boost morale.”
Airman 1st Class Chadai Knight, 1st Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron Individual Protective Equipment apprentice, said she was inspired to join the council out of the desire to make a difference in her community.
“I want to be part of a community that builds others up and encourages diversity to promote a healthy and fun environment,” Knight said. “I think this council is going to reach people on a personal level. We’re going to be around so many different people, each of us learning from one another because we are all coming from different cultural backgrounds.”
In order to reach the most people and cultures as possible, council membership is open to everyone assigned to Hurlburt, including civilians.
To volunteer for the council or a specific observance, email samantha.telfair@us.af.mil or call (850) 884-8716.