• Sat on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council representing Army G-2 (Intelligence)
• A now deleted article titled “Inclusion key in continuing gains in Army diversity” published by the Army details the following about Smith:
  • Open and proud Homosexual.
    • “I am proud to openly serve, and I stand with all of our service members, civilians and families who defend our great nation to wish our LGBTQI+ servicemembers, civilians and allies a Happy Pride,”
    • “It is my continued hope and strong belief that all minorities and LGBTQI+ servicemembers will continue to find people in our Army and community that recognize us for who we are. Paraphrasing from my pastor, who I hear every Sunday, no matter where you come from, what you believe or doubt, what you feel or don’t feel, or whom you love, you are welcome. This is a great inclusive message for all of us.”

• Smith praised the Army for its steps toward DEI but wants it to become a more inclusive branch:
• • “There are policies, programs and activities that provide for whomever people are, whatever their orientation is,”
  • “We have DEI, and as an Army, I think we are good on the diversity and equity part. The inclusive part was always a struggle. How do we pay it forward? How do we showcase to people who are behind us, who are asking, ‘Is there a place for me in this Army? Can I be myself? Can I be successful? Who has paved the way for me?”
  • “We’ve opened combat arms to women,” he said. “We have leaders who are part of the LBGTQ+ community who are successful commanders. We allow certain platforms to recognize all groups. We we have EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity program) observances or monthly activities for multiple groups. Those are ways to recognize the Army hears those communities and recognizes they may be a small part of the population, but still matter.”

Photo Source: U.S. Army