Feb 02, 2025

New Defense Secretary cancels all identity months in the U.S. military

Posted Feb 02, 2025 11:00 PM
Sailors decorate for Pride Month aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean, June 16, 2022.- Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II
Sailors decorate for Pride Month aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean, June 16, 2022.- Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II

U.S. Department of Defense

Guidance from the Secretary of Defense: "Identity Months Dead at DoD"

Our unity and purpose are instrumental to meeting the Department's warfighting mission. Efforts to divide the force – to put one group ahead of another – erode camaraderie and threaten mission execution.

Going forward, DoD Components and Military Departments will not use official resources, to include man-hours, to host celebrations or events related to cultural awareness months, including National African American/Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National American Indian Heritage Month. Service members and civilians remain permitted to attend these events in an unofficial capacity outside of duty hours.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Ysabella Paris participates in a cardboard boat race during a Pride Month observance event at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., June 9, 2023. The base hosted several events throughout the month of June to celebrate and honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ service members. Photo by Air Force Airman 1st Class Katelynn Jackson
Air Force Airman 1st Class Ysabella Paris participates in a cardboard boat race during a Pride Month observance event at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., June 9, 2023. The base hosted several events throughout the month of June to celebrate and honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ service members. Photo by Air Force Airman 1st Class Katelynn Jackson

Installations, units, and offices are encouraged to celebrate the valor and success of military heroes of all races, genders, and backgrounds as we restore our warrior culture and ethos. We are proud of our warriors and their history, but we will focus on the character of their service instead of their immutable characteristics.