USNA PRIDE SHARED INTEREST GROUP

The Shared Interest Group shall be formed with the purpose of connecting Naval Academy alumni who identify as LGBTQ+ and Allies of this community. Throughout the U.S. Naval Academy’s storied history, many alumni who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community, and their allies, have served with distinction in positions of command, citizenship, and government. This Shared Interest Group shall serve a threefold purpose: i. Create a bond of community among USNA LGBTQ+ alumni and allies based on shared experiences while at USNA and within the fleet, enabling the development of inclusive friendships which span USNA classes, geographies, and services. ii. Serve as a platform for LGBTQ+ representation within the broader USNA alumni network, through which the contributions that LGBTQ+ alumni have made to the Naval Academy, the military service, their communities, and their nation may be recognized. iii. Establish a network of mentorship and support for LGBTQ+ alumni who currently serve in the operating forces, and for current LGBTQ+ midshipmen as they prepare to commission. In fulfilling this purpose, the USNA Pride SIG will strengthen relationships between alumni and the Academy by connecting LGBTQ+ and Ally alumni back to the Naval Academy and the USNA Alumni Association. SIG activities will endeavor to perpetuate the history, traditions, memories, and growth of the Naval Academy and bind alumni together in support of the highest ideals of command, citizenship and government.

Many LGBTQ+ alumni have had varied experiences relating to our LGBTQ+ identity. The USNA Pride SIG recognizes the pain and struggle that some LGBTQ+ alumni may have endured while at the Academy or while serving our nation. With a focus on the future, the USNA Pride SIG aims to celebrate both our LGBTQ+ identities and our service. The USNA Pride SIG stands ready to acknowledge and listen to the personal stories of our members in a positive and productive way. While every private citizen has the right to speak freely, criticism of the Navy, the Naval Academy, the Naval Academy Alumni Association, or other alumni will not be condoned in any forum created by and used for the USNA Pride SIG.