African American History

While all women in the United States Armed Forces share a history of discrimination based on gender, women of color have faced barriers of gender, race and traditional cultural values in their pursuit of opportunity for service in the armed forces. Through persistent efforts in demanding inclusion for their right to serve, women of color have seen their roles across society and all sectors tremendously expanded, including their presence in today’s military.

Born during a time when our country seeks healing amid persistent calls to dismantle systemic racism, this exhibit seeks to highlight the diversity of women of color in the nation’s defense. Across the decades and for all the challenges, women of color still found meaning and value in serving in uniform despite the military’s shortcomings and history of systemic discrimination on multiple fronts—from race, gender, ethnicity and national origin, to sexual orientation and gender identity.

According to a 2018 government report, women of color represented nearly 61 percent of enlisted women in the United States Armed Forces and about 38 percent of women officers.

The Military Women’s Memorial honors and tells the stories of women, past and present, who serve our nation.  We are the leading memorial and education center honoring women’s contributions to the service of our nation.  

As the only historical repository documenting all military women’s service, we educate and inspire through innovative and interactive exhibitions, our world-class collections, and engaging programs and events for all generations. We honor the commitment, contributions and experiences of every woman who serves in, or with, the Armed Forces.