Pentagon Orders Removal of DEI Materials from Military Libraries
The Pentagon has directed top military leaders to take certain books and materials about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) out of military libraries. This new rule follows a law passed by Congress that puts strict limits on DEI programs in the armed forces.
What Prompted the New Rule?
Congress recently approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the 2024 budget year. Part of this law says that federal money cannot be used for training, education, or materials that promote DEI ideas, including critical race theory.
After this law was passed, the Department of Defense sent a memo to all military branches. The memo told leaders to look for any materials not allowed by the new law and to remove them from libraries, reading lists, and educational programs.
What Does the Memo Say?
Gilbert Cisneros, who was the Pentagon’s undersecretary for personnel and readiness, wrote in the memo: "All Department of Defense components must ensure that library materials, reading lists, and similar resources do not include content that is prohibited by the NDAA."
The memo was sent to every branch of the military, including:
- Army
- Navy
- Air Force
- Marine Corps
- Space Force
How Will the Pentagon Decide What to Remove?
The Pentagon is working to give guidance to commanders so they know how to spot materials that break the new rules. A Pentagon spokesperson said, "We are committed to complying with the law and ensuring that our educational resources reflect the values and priorities of the Department of Defense."
Officials explained that commanders should be extra careful and remove anything that might not follow the law. However, the Pentagon has not released a list of exact books or materials that will be pulled from shelves. The review process is still going on.
Why Is This Happening Now?
The issue of DEI in the military has been debated for years. Some lawmakers say DEI programs help make the military stronger and fairer for everyone. Others believe these programs distract from the main mission of the armed forces.
The new restrictions are part of a larger effort by Congress to limit DEI programs across all parts of the federal government, not just in the military.
Different Opinions on the Decision
The Pentagon’s decision has led to strong reactions from both sides of the debate:
- Critics say removing DEI materials will hurt efforts to make the military more welcoming and to fight discrimination.
- Supporters believe the military should stay away from what they see as "divisive" or "political" ideas and focus on national defense.
- Rep. Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, said, "This is a step backward for our armed forces. Diversity and inclusion are essential to military readiness and effectiveness."
- Rep. Mike Rogers, the Republican chairman of the same committee, stated, "Our military should be focused on defending the nation, not on social engineering."
What’s Next for Military Libraries?
Military leaders are now busy reviewing all library materials, reading lists, and other resources to make sure they follow the new law. The Pentagon has told commanders to take action before the end of June 2024.
So far, there is no public list of which books or resources will be removed. The Pentagon says the process will take some time and that commanders should be careful as they review their collections.
Background: What Are DEI Programs?
DEI stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion. These programs are meant to teach about different backgrounds and help create a fair environment for everyone, no matter their race, gender, or other differences. In recent years, DEI has become a hot topic in schools, businesses, and the government.
Some believe DEI programs help people understand each other better and make workplaces and organizations stronger. Others think these programs can be too political or lead to division.
How Will This Affect Service Members?
It is not yet clear exactly how many materials will be removed or how this change will impact those who serve in the military. Some worry that taking away DEI resources will make it harder to address problems like discrimination or unfair treatment.
Others argue that the military will now be able to focus more on its main job: protecting the country.
Looking Ahead
The Pentagon’s order is just one part of a bigger national debate over DEI programs in government and public life. As the military reviews its libraries and educational materials, Americans will be watching to see what changes are made and how service members are affected.
For now, military leaders are under pressure to follow the new rules and to make tough decisions about what should stay and what has to go from their shelves.