Can unconditional love fight racism in the military? Dr. Gary Mason II believes it can. In his dissertation, A Divine Solution: Unconditional Love as an Antidote to Racial Discrimination in the US Army, Mason presents a bold idea: biblical, Christ-like love can help heal the deep racial divisions within the Army.
A Faith-Based Answer to a Real Problem
Mason, a retired US Army Captain, combines theology, military history, and personal testimony to argue that agape, unconditional love, can counteract hate, injustice, and division. His work draws from Scripture and real-world reconciliation models, like South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
Theological Foundation
At the heart of Mason’s message is the concept of Imago Dei—that every person is made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26). He uses biblical stories like the Good Samaritan (Luke 10) and Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman (John 4) to show how love breaks down racial barriers. Christ’s love isn’t passive; it’s transformative and active in the face of injustice.
Racism in the Ranks
The dissertation outlines systemic racism in the Army, from historical segregation to modern issues like white supremacy and toxic leadership. Cases like the death of Pvt. Danny Chen shows that racism is still present and painful.
Through interviews with Army chaplains and survivors of discrimination, Mason gathered honest, personal insights. Many chaplains feel called to help but need support and training to do so effectively.
A Path Toward Healing
Mason offers a three-part solution inspired by the TRC:
- Truth – Acknowledge racism’s existence in the military.
- Justice – Promote accountability and restitution.
- Reconciliation – Encourage forgiveness and healing through chaplain-led efforts.
Chaplains, he argues, are uniquely positioned to lead the charge. His proposal includes a new curriculum for chaplain training at Fort Jackson to equip them with tools for racial reconciliation.
Strengths and Challenges
This approach is powerful because it blends spiritual principles with actionable policy. It calls not just for diversity but for true unity through love and truth.
However, Mason acknowledges challenges: military culture is slow to change, and not all chaplains may be ready to confront racism head-on. Broader application across the military and civilian sectors also remains to be seen.
Why It Matters Now
As debates over race and equity continue in America, Mason’s message is both timely and timeless. His vision isn’t just about fixing the Army—it’s about healing human hearts.
He reminds us, through a quote from Martin Luther King Jr., that:
“Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
This faith-based approach invites leaders, chaplains, and soldiers to see reconciliation as possible and necessary. Mason’s work is a must-read for military leaders, chaplains, and anyone seeking real answers to racial injustice. Through forgiveness and faith, it offers a hopeful path toward a more united force.
