Black veteran groups seek policy agenda on racial inequities
“”For many people from Black and brown (veterans) communities, we’re starting from a different place in life,’ said Dabney, 42. ‘Being able to talk to people who started from that place, who have a mindset similar to yours as they went through the military, has a different meaning to us.’
In addition to disparities in the military justice system, homelessness and unemployment, federal veterans benefits data show Black service members’ post-Sept. 11 disability claims have been granted at lower rates than their white counterparts. Advocates say racial inequality in veterans’ benefit access stifles or, worse, upends the lives of those who proudly served their country.”