The sudden disappearance of the Marine Corps’ Culture and Inclusion Branch webpage has raised questions about the military’s ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts. The webpage, once promoting messages of respect for diverse backgrounds, was removed following a directive to end federal equality initiatives.
This directive, issued by President Donald Trump, has spurred all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, to dismantle diversity programs. The swift action has led to uncertainty about which programs will continue.
Efforts to improve military service experiences for women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals have been ongoing for years. However, these initiatives have become politically contentious, with accusations from some quarters that they weaken the military. The recent executive order has prompted a sweep to eliminate such programs.
Confusion reigns as services have not provided a comprehensive list of affected programs. The Army and Marine Corps issued guidance to their personnel, while the Navy, Air Force, and Space Force have been less clear. All federal agencies have been instructed to report any attempts to obscure or disguise diversity efforts.
The removal of related websites, documents, and groups has been ordered, which affects initiatives like improving quality of life for diverse military members. The Army, for example, briefly removed its sexual harassment and assault prevention policy from its site, though it was later restored.
The Navy, facing fewer public-facing materials due to prior congressional actions, confirmed the cancellation of several reserve force policies, including those concerning diversity and equal opportunity, as per a memo from Vice Adm. Nancy Lacore.
Inquiries about the Marine Corps’ programs led to referrals to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, which reiterated compliance with the president’s orders. Questions remain about the status of initiatives such as the Diversity AIMED program, which had successfully increased diversity among Marines.
Gen. Eric Smith, the Marine Corps’ top official, stated, “We don’t do DEI in the Marine Corps; we never have. We’re a meritocracy-based organization.” His comments highlight the service’s stance on diversity and inclusion.
The Air Force and Space Force also felt the impact of the order, with directives to dismantle working groups and remove diversity content from public platforms. The Acting Air Force Secretary’s memo further clarified these changes.
Meanwhile, the Department of Veterans Affairs acted decisively, closing diversity offices and placing staff on leave. Acting VA Secretary Todd Hunter criticized the programs as divisive and costly in a memo explaining these actions.
As the military navigates these changes, the future of diversity efforts remains uncertain, with many awaiting further clarification and guidance.
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