DAF Form 1587-1: Military Equal Opportunity Informal Complaint

DAF Form 1587-1: Military Equal Opportunity Informal Complaint – If you are a member of the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force and have experienced or witnessed unlawful discrimination, discriminatory harassment (including sexual harassment), or related issues, the DAF Form 1587-1 serves as the official document to initiate an informal Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) complaint.

This form helps document concerns at the lowest appropriate level, promoting quick resolution while protecting your rights in a fair and confidential process. Understanding how and when to use DAF Form 1587-1 empowers Airmen and Guardians to address issues effectively without immediately escalating to a formal investigation.

What Is DAF Form 1587-1?

DAF Form 1587-1, titled Military Equal Opportunity Informal Complaint, is the Department of the Air Force form used to document and process informal MEO complaints by military members (including Regular Air Force, U.S. Space Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard under Title 10 status).

It replaced or updated earlier versions of the AF Form 1587-1 and works alongside DAF Form 1587 (the formal complaint version). The informal form focuses on resolution through options like direct discussion, chain of command involvement, mediation/facilitation, or other low-level interventions rather than a full command-directed investigation (CDI) or Inspector General process from the start.

Key purposes:

  • Document the nature of the concern (e.g., discrimination based on race, color, sex/gender—including sexual harassment—national origin, religion, or other protected categories outlined in DAF policy).
  • Record the complainant’s preferred resolution method.
  • Track the informal process, outcomes, and any follow-up.
  • Serve as a record that can support escalation to a formal complaint (DAF Form 1587) if the issue remains unresolved.

The form includes sections for complainant details, description of the incident(s), involved parties, and resolution options. It also incorporates a Privacy Act statement, as the information collected is protected and used for counseling, processing, and resolving complaints.

Download the official form here: DAF Form 1587-1 PDF

Informal vs. Formal MEO Complaints in the Air Force

The Department of the Air Force encourages resolving issues at the lowest appropriate level whenever possible.

  • Informal Complaint (DAF Form 1587-1): No strict filing deadline in many cases. Focuses on quick, non-punitive resolution. Options often include self-resolution, chain of command assistance, or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) such as facilitation (the primary ADR method used). The MEO office typically notifies commanders within 24 hours in many processes and follows up. Resolution is documented on the form.
  • Formal Complaint (DAF Form 1587): Involves a more structured investigation. Timelines are stricter (often within 60–90 days of the incident, depending on specifics), and it creates a stronger official record with potential for command-directed actions or further review.

You can start with an informal complaint and escalate to formal if unsatisfied, or in some cases go directly to formal. Certain issues (e.g., those outside MEO scope like criminal matters) may be referred elsewhere, such as to the IG or law enforcement.

Note: Sexual harassment and sexual assault have specific overlapping procedures with the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program. Consult your local MEO or SAPR representative for guidance.

Who Can File a DAF Form 1587-1 Complaint?

  • Active-duty Air Force and Space Force members
  • Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard members in Title 10 status
  • Eligible cadets (e.g., USAFA)
  • In some cases, military family members or retirees for certain MEO-related concerns (though formal appeal options may be limited)

The DAF MEO program applies to prohibited discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and certain other forms of harassment (such as bullying/hazing when tied to protected categories) under governing instructions like DAFI 36-2710, Equal Opportunity Program.

How to File and Use DAF Form 1587-1? (Step-by-Step)

  1. Contact Your Local MEO Office: Reach out to the Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) professional at your installation, wing, or unit. They provide confidential intake, explain options, and assist with completing the form. Many bases also have an MEO hotline or the DAF Unlawful Discrimination and Harassment Hotline.
  2. Complete the Intake: Describe the incident(s) clearly, including dates, times, locations, individuals involved, and how it relates to a protected category. Be factual.
  3. Sign the Form: The complainant reviews, verifies, and signs DAF Form 1587-1 to initiate the informal process. MEO staff prepare or assist with the documentation, often within a few duty days.
  4. Choose Resolution Path: Common informal options include:
    • Addressing the issue directly (with or without support)
    • Involving the chain of command
    • Facilitation/mediation through MEO (often targeted within 15 days)
    • Other appropriate assistance
  5. Notification and Follow-Up: Commanders of the complainant and alleged offender are typically notified promptly (e.g., within 24 hours in many documented processes). MEO tracks progress and conducts follow-up (e.g., within 5 days initially, then as needed until resolved).
  6. Document the Outcome: If resolved, the form is closed with notes on the agreement or resolution. If not resolved, you may elect to file a formal complaint on DAF Form 1587 or pursue other avenues (e.g., IG referral).

Tip: Keep copies of all documentation and notes on dates of contact. Confidentiality is maintained to the greatest extent possible, though absolute anonymity has limits once commanders must be informed or action is required.

What Happens After Filing?

  • Timelines: Informal processes emphasize speed. Facilitation may occur within 15 days. Overall resolution goals aim for efficiency (e.g., 60 days in related service policies for informal matters).
  • Possible Outcomes: Agreement reached and behavior corrected; referral for further review; or escalation to formal process/CDI/IG.
  • No Reprisal: DAF policy strictly prohibits retaliation for filing a good-faith complaint. Report any perceived reprisal immediately.
  • If Unresolved: You generally retain the right to file a formal MEO complaint.

MEO offices also offer climate assessments, training, and outreach to prevent issues.

Important Protections and Rights

  • Privacy: Information is handled under the Privacy Act with limited authorized disclosures.
  • Zero Tolerance: The Department of the Air Force maintains a policy of zero tolerance for unlawful discrimination and harassment.
  • Support Resources: In addition to MEO, you can access chaplains, legal assistance (JAG), mental health services, or the Inspector General as appropriate.
  • Recent Policy Context: DAF continues to uphold legally mandated Equal Opportunity and MEO programs focused on nondiscrimination, separate from discontinued DEIA initiatives.

Always consult current DAFI 36-2710 and your local MEO office for the most up-to-date procedures, as processes can have service-specific nuances.

Where to Get Help?

  • Local MEO Office: Search your base directory or installation website for “Military Equal Opportunity” or “MEO.”
  • DAF EO Resources: Visit official Air Force and Space Force portals (af.mil, spaceforce.mil) for policy documents and flowcharts.
  • Form Download: Official DAF Form 1587-1
  • Hotlines: Use the DAF Unlawful Discrimination and Harassment Hotline or SAPR resources if applicable.

Important Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on publicly available Department of the Air Force policies and forms. It is not legal advice. Procedures, timelines, and requirements can change. For personalized guidance, contact your installation MEO professional, chain of command, or JAG immediately. Prompt reporting helps ensure a fair, respectful, and mission-ready environment for all Airmen and Guardians.

Filing a complaint demonstrates commitment to Air Force and Space Force core values of integrity, service, and excellence. If you need assistance, resources are available—do not hesitate to use them.