URGENT UPDATE: The U.S. Coast Guard is making significant changes to its policy regarding the display of hate symbols, including swastikas and nooses, as revealed in a new directive set to take effect on December 15, 2023. This decision has ignited immediate backlash from lawmakers and civil rights advocates who fear it may enable the display of these notorious symbols.
Under the new policy, which was first reported by The Washington Post, symbols previously classified as “hate incidents” are now termed “potentially divisive.” While the Coast Guard continues to prohibit the public display of the Confederate flag, it does not explicitly ban other “potentially divisive” symbols. Critics, including Democratic Senator Jacky Rosen of Nevada, argue that this policy rollback could lead to a dangerous environment for Coast Guard personnel, stating, “relaxing policies aimed at fighting hate crimes not only sends the wrong message…but it puts their safety at risk.”
In a statement, Admiral Kevin Lunday, the acting commandant of the Coast Guard, insisted that the new policy does not diminish existing prohibitions. He emphasized that the display or promotion of hateful symbols will continue to be thoroughly investigated and punished. “These symbols have been and remain prohibited in the Coast Guard per policy,” he affirmed.
The timing of this policy revision aligns with broader changes within the military as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently called for a review of definitions surrounding bullying and harassment, claiming existing policies were “overly broad” and detrimental to operational readiness.
Lunday’s predecessor, Admiral Linda Fagan, was dismissed on the first day of the Trump administration, partially due to her strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, which some officials claimed took resources away from operational priorities. The current policy explicitly removes the term “hate incident” and instead categorizes such conduct under “reports of harassment” when involving an identified individual.
What happens next remains to be seen. The Coast Guard’s policy is now under scrutiny, with many advocating for a reinstatement of stricter guidelines against hate symbols. As discussions continue, the implications of this shift could resonate beyond the Coast Guard, affecting how military branches address hate and discrimination.
As this story develops, the implications for Coast Guard personnel and the broader military community will become increasingly critical. The urgency of this matter calls for public awareness and dialogue as the safety and morale of service members hang in the balance.