Join us for a powerful, timely conversation that explores the military-veteran experience through a framework that connects systems, stories, and action. Across 250 years of U.S. history, military service has been shaped by both exclusion and opportunity—revealing the profound courage, complexity, and contribution of those who serve.

HEAD — What the Data and History Tell Us

We’ll trace the arc from 1775 —from Reject-Recruit-Reject to today —unpacking key policies, demographics, and turning points—from desegregation and gender integration to the repeal of DADT, and the changing face of the all-volunteer force. We’ll also examine today’s systemic realities: mental health inequities, underemployment, barriers to VA access, and a widening civil–military divide.

HEART — Honoring the Human Experience

Behind every uniform is a story. We explore the emotional truths of service—purpose, sacrifice, trauma, transition, belonging, and rejection—while lifting up narratives that foster empathy, reduce stigma, and bridge understanding between military and civilian communities.

HANDS — What Inclusion Looks Like in Practice

Participants will gain actionable strategies for creating environments where service members and veterans can thrive. Learn how employers can build effective hiring pipelines, how citizens can strengthen community support, and how DEI practitioners can integrate veteran identity into broader inclusion frameworks.

Why This Matters Now

From the internment of Japanese Americans to Little Rock, Kent State, Katrina, and DADT repeal—moments when the military became deeply political—our national story has continually tested who “belongs.” This session invites us to reflect on those tensions and to chart a more inclusive path forward.

Moderator: Greg Jenkins, Founder & CEO, Greg Jenkins Consulting ; U.S. Army Combat Vet

Panelists: Veterans Sharing Their Experiences