The Pentagon has halted all Black History Month events following a directive from the Trump administration, part of a broader ban on activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The Defense Intelligence Agency confirmed the pause in a statement, explaining that 11 “special observances,” including LGBTQ Pride Month, Women’s History Month, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, will be suspended. The move comes as part of sweeping changes intended to reduce what the administration views as divisive initiatives.
Civil rights leaders quickly condemned the decision, with Martin Luther King III issuing a statement on social media, vowing to defend the legacy of his father. “Now more than ever, I am dedicated to being about my father’s business,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I encourage all people of goodwill to be about the business of Peace, Justice, Love, and Equity.” His response underscores the broader concerns shared by advocacy groups who argue that halting these observances undermines the progress made toward equality.
During a White House briefing, press secretary Karoline Leavitt attempted to clarify the administration’s stance, noting that the White House itself intends to continue commemorating Black History Month and other contributions made by Americans of diverse backgrounds. “We will continue to celebrate American history and the contributions of all Americans, regardless of race, religion, or creed,” she told reporters, although she did not comment on the Pentagon’s specific directive.
The suspension also includes bans on Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, National American Indian Heritage Month, and Holocaust Remembrance Day. The Defense Intelligence Agency emphasized that the decision is part of the administration’s review of DEI initiatives across federal agencies, a policy that has drawn backlash from minority communities. Critics argue that these observances serve as vital reminders of historical contributions and struggles that should not be erased from public institutions.
With tensions rising, legal experts suggest that the decision could face challenges in court, given the historical significance of some of the banned events. Meanwhile, civil rights organizations are planning protests and calling for congressional intervention to protect these observances. For King and other advocates, the fight is about more than restoring events on a calendar—it is about preserving the visibility and recognition of marginalized communities within American society.
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