The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) has issued a memo halting any activities associated with several significant observances, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month. This memo lists a total of 11 such observances that personnel are instructed not to recognize through workplace activities, in compliance with President Trump's executive actions aimed at dismantling federal DEI initiatives within the military.
This initiative stems from an executive order Trump signed on Inauguration Day, which calls for the discontinuation of all federal programs deemed discriminatory, including those related to diversity and equity. A subsequent executive order focused specifically on targeting DEI practices within the military, and the DIA has indicated it is collaborating with the Department of Defense to implement these directives effectively.
While details of the memo gained attention through independent journalist Ken Klippenstein's post on social media platform X, the DIA has not confirmed its contents while acknowledging the efforts to align with executive orders and administration guidance. Trump's emphasis on the cessation of DEI observances reflects his broader agenda, and he has controversially linked such issues to a recent aviation incident without providing substantial evidence.
Efforts to comply with these executive orders have already begun within the Pentagon, with some adjustments made to military training programs. The Air Force recently updated its basic training curriculum that previously included historical videos featuring the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots, which had drawn backlash when briefly removed for review.
Furthermore, newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth established a task force with the specific mission of eliminating DEI efforts within the Pentagon. The task force is expected to deliver its initial findings by March, as the Pentagon navigates this shift in policy amid external scrutiny and internal operational changes.
8 Comments
Coccinella
Outrageous! The DIA halting MLK Day and Black History Month observances is a blatant attack on diversity and inclusion.
Cerebro
Diversity strengthens our nation, not weakens it. Ignoring the contributions of minority groups is harmful and prevents us from truly understanding our history and ourselves.
ZmeeLove
The removal of historical videos from Air Force training is a disgrace. These stories must be told to ensure we never forget the struggles and sacrifices made for equality.
Habibi
This is absolutely unacceptable! Celebrating diverse voices and historical figures is crucial, not discriminatory. Trump's executive order is dangerous and erases important contributions.
Bella Ciao
Enough with the outrage! Let's give this new policy a chance and see how it works out.
Katchuka
Trump's executive order is based on a flawed understanding of equality. It's not about equal outcomes, but about creating a level playing field where everyone has the same opportunities to succeed.
Loubianka
This is not the America we want to be. We must stand together and reject this divisive and discriminatory policy.
Barachiel
The fight for equality is ongoing. We cannot let this policy stand. We must continue to fight for a just and equitable society for all.