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The U.S. Coast Guard has retracted a controversial draft policy that categorized swastikas and nooses as "potentially divisive" symbols. The reversal came swiftly after the proposed language drew significant backlash for appearing to downplay the hateful nature of these images.
A draft update to the Coast Guard’s Prohibited Items and Symbols List included swastikas and nooses in a section for items that could be considered divisive. This classification ignited immediate condemnation from watchdog groups and lawmakers, who argued that such symbols are unambiguous emblems of hate, genocide, and racial violence, not merely subject to interpretation.
In response to the public outcry, the Coast Guard issued a clarification, stating the wording in the draft document was an error and did not reflect the service's official position. A spokesperson confirmed the mistake was identified during an internal review and was being corrected. According to a statement, the Coast Guard reaffirmed its unequivocal stance against hate symbols, emphasizing that swastikas and nooses are strictly prohibited and have no place in the service.
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts within the U.S. military branches to address extremism and foster an inclusive environment. The Coast Guard has existing regulations aimed at maintaining a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. These rules are designed to uphold good order and discipline by rejecting symbols that undermine respect and dignity among service members. The service's broader personnel policies, including updated rules on tattoos, explicitly forbid any markings that depict racism, extremist philosophies, or violence.
While the Coast Guard stated the document was a preliminary draft not intended for public release, the initial wording drew immediate rebuke, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of precise language in policies addressing extremism within the armed forces. The service asserts that its definitive policy has always been, and remains, that such symbols of hate are unacceptable.
