Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the Pentagon will no longer recognize “identity months,” declaring them “dead” ahead of Black History Month. The new policy ends official support for observances such as Black History and Women’s History Month, aligning with efforts to refocus the military on its core mission. Service members may still participate privately.
The directive emphasized:
“Our unity and purpose are instrumental to meeting the Department’s warfighting mission. Efforts to divide the force — to put one group ahead of another — erode camaraderie and threaten mission execution.”
The Pentagon will no longer officially recognize events such as American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and other cultural observances previously listed.
Another section of the directive states:
“Installations, units, and offices are encouraged to celebrate the valor and success of military heroes of all races, genders, and backgrounds as we restore our warrior culture and ethos. We are proud of our warriors and their history, but we will focus on the character of their service instead of their immutable characteristics.”
While DEI remains a key focus for the White House, President Trump has not entirely eliminated recognition of these months. He issued a proclamation honoring Black History Month.
From the Washington Examiner:
“Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most consequential leaders, shaping the cultural and political destiny of our Nation in profound ways. American heroes such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Thomas Sowell, Justice Clarence Thomas, and countless others represent what is best in America and her citizens,” Trump’s Friday proclamation said.“Their achievements, which have monumentally advanced the tradition of equality under the law in our great country, continue to serve as an inspiration for all Americans,” the proclamation continued.
As Trump continues his anti-DEI overhaul, I am curious to see how his executive actions will shape the administration’s broader agenda.
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