In a swift response to widespread criticism, the U.S. Coast Guard has revised its approach to handling symbols of hate and harassment. This comes after the release of a new policy manual that initially downgraded swastikas and nooses from being labeled explicitly as hate symbols.
Policy Changes and Public Reaction
JUANA SUMMERS, HOST:
Beginning next month, the U.S. Coast Guard intended to reclassify the use of racist symbols, such as swastikas and nooses, as potentially divisive rather than maintaining their status as hate symbols. This change sparked significant backlash following reports by The Washington Post and others. Consequently, the Coast Guard has backtracked on some of these proposed modifications. Steve Walsh from WHRO in Norfolk, Virginia, provides further insight.
STEVE WALSH, BYLINE: Hello, Juana.
Initial Policy and its Implications
SUMMERS: Steve, can you explain the origins of this policy change and its initial language?
WALSH: The Coast Guard updated its harassment manual, which outlines procedures for investigating cases. Previously, terms like swastikas and nooses were clearly identified as hate symbols. The revised manual grouped these symbols under general harassment claims, potentially diluting their severity. The updated policy was set to take effect on December 15. However, following public outcry, particularly from Jewish communities and lawmakers, the Coast Guard issued a revised statement late Thursday. The updated language restores their commitment to prohibiting “divisive or hate symbols and flags,” reintroducing the term hate into their descriptions.
Ongoing Investigation and Concerns
SUMMERS: Are Coast Guard officials still committed to investigating these symbols when they appear in spaces like ships or barracks?
WALSH: Yes, investigations will continue. However, the new manual still includes these incidents as part of broader harassment claims. The previous policy was more rigorous, clearly defining processes for investigating hate incidents and emphasizing that not all hate-related cases qualify as harassment. This distinction is crucial since displaying supremacist symbols in shared spaces impacts entire communities, not just individuals. Many of these policies were strengthened during the first Trump administration, emphasizing strict investigation timelines and mandatory reporting to higher command. The new manual also addresses sexual harassment and suggests mediation for minor claims while removing references to transgender Coast Guardsmen.
Historical Context and Recent Incidents
SUMMERS: Were there specific incidents the previous policy aimed to address?
WALSH: Yes, although such incidents are reportedly rare. In 2021 and 2023, nooses were discovered aboard two different Navy ships. In 2007, a noose was found at the Coast Guard Academy. Any attempts to weaken the harassment manual’s language evoke memories of Operation Fouled Anchor, which involved covering up a sexual assault investigation at the Academy.
Future Directions and Leadership Changes
SUMMERS: What’s the current status regarding leadership and future policy directions?
WALSH: The Coast Guard, part of the Department of Homeland Security, has been without a permanent commandant since President Trump dismissed Admiral Linda Fagan due to her focus on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday paused the harassment policy upon taking over. Nominated to be the next commandant, Lunday’s confirmation hearing was held Wednesday, but a voting date has yet to be scheduled.
SUMMERS: That’s Steve Walsh from WHRO.
WALSH: Thank you, Juana.
Accuracy and availability of NPR transcripts may vary. Transcript text may be revised to correct errors or match updates to audio. Audio on npr.org may be edited after its original broadcast or publication. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
