Chicago Patriot 2, 2025
The Trump White House issued a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month, but the move was overshadowed by conflicting messages from the Defense Department. The Defense Department announced that it would no longer observe “identity months,” including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
The proclamation from the White House called for public officials, educators, and citizens to observe the month with “appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.” However, the Defense Department’s guidance declared that official resources, including working hours, would no longer be used to mark cultural awareness months.
The conflicting messages come as President Trump has been targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs for removal. Trump has referred to DEI initiatives as “discrimination” and has insisted that the country must move toward a merit-based society.
