11/22/2025
AI Overview
+6
The U.S. Coast Guard did not decide that the N**i sw****ka was an "acceptable" symbol; rather, a recent, widely criticized, and subsequently reversed policy change would have reclassified sw****kas and nooses as "potentially divisive" imagery instead of explicit "hate symbols".
The shift in policy was part of an anti-harassment regulation revision that was reportedly influenced by broader directives within the U.S. government to review "overly broad" policies on hazing and harassment across the military services.
Key points regarding the policy change and its reversal:
Original Policy Change: A revised policy, reported on November 20, 2025, from an unnamed source within the Coast Guard, initially reclassified symbols like sw****kas and nooses as "potentially divisive," a departure from previous policy that explicitly identified them as hate symbols. This would have allowed commanders more discretion in deciding whether a display was a violation, based on its impact on "good order and discipline, unit cohesion, command climate, morale or mission effectiveness".
Leadership and Influence: The policy revision came after the firing of former Commandant Admiral Linda Fagan, who had focused on diversity initiatives. Her replacement, acting Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday, was at the helm when the policy was revised. The shift was seen by some as being aligned with a push by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the military.
Public Outcry and Reversal: The news of the proposed change was met with immediate and strong backlash from lawmakers, Jewish groups, and the public.
Current, Updated Policy: In response to the outcry, the Coast Guard quickly issued a new memo stating that "Divisive or hate symbols and flags are prohibited". Acting Commandant Admiral Lunday clarified that symbols such as sw****kas and nooses "violate our core values and are treated with the seriousness they warrant under current policy". The new policy explicitly bans the display of such symbols in all Coast Guard "workplaces, facilities, and assets".
