The Perspectives and Experiences of Black Female Naval Officers

This thesis examines the perspectives and experiences of Black female naval officers and explores reasons why they joined the Navy and their attitudes toward continued service. Eighteen in depth interviews were conducted in Monterey, California and Washington, DC. Twelve general themes were developed as a result of the interviews. These themes covered topics such as reasons for joining, experiences while in the Navy, concerns about recruitment of minorities, perceptions about racism, perceptions of inequitable treatment, and feelings about being the only one. Conclusions drawn from the research reveal a need for continued understanding of the problems and issues confronting Black female naval officers. Recommendations are offered for courses of action that may help with the recruitment and retention of Black female naval officers and the leadership of a diverse Navy.