By Matt Underwood The Trump administration’s equity order, ostensibly aimed at dismantling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, has resulted in the effective shutdown of West Point’s engineering society chapters. This action reveals a deeper hostility towards non-white men, rather than a genuine commitment to meritocracy. The claim that this is about merit is simply a smokescreen.
The impact goes far beyond West Point. The potential for similar actions at other colleges and universities is deeply concerning. The loss of these societies represents the loss of valuable networking opportunities and supportive communities for students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. These organizations often serve as vital support systems, fostering lifelong friendships and professional connections.
The historical parallels to the rise of Nazi Germany are striking. The administration’s actions are not merely about eliminating organizations they dislike; they are about creating controlled alternatives. Just as the Nazis replaced existing youth organizations with the Hitler Youth, we might see a similar move to establish a “patriotic” engineering society, effectively replacing DEI-focused groups with a sanctioned, non-woke organization.
This pattern of suppression followed by the creation of approved alternatives extends beyond student organizations. The administration may exert control over other institutions, subtly influencing them rather than creating complete replacements. The NCAA, for example, might be subjected to pressure to conform to the administration’s vision, rather than being replaced outright. Privately funded alternatives, potentially backed by wealthy individuals, may also emerge.
The supposed justification for these actions—an aversion to DEI—is a thinly veiled form of racism. While legitimate critiques of DEI implementation exist, focusing on communication style or potential unintended consequences, the dominant anti-DEI sentiment is fueled by white supremacist ideology. It masks a desire to exclude and marginalize minority groups.
This order is particularly detrimental to West Point, an institution already known for its challenging and often hostile environment for non-white men. The elimination of these support networks exacerbates this existing problem, creating a more isolating and discriminatory atmosphere. While students may attempt to meet informally, this undermines the structured support and recognition provided by official chapters.
The argument that these engineering societies are unnecessary because “the institution” is already established for white male engineers is deeply flawed. The existence of these societies highlights the persistent need for inclusive spaces where underrepresented groups can connect and thrive. It is a testament to the ongoing need to counteract systemic biases within the institution itself. The fact that societies specifically for white male engineers don’t exist underscores this point; such groups would likely face immediate legal challenges.
The administration’s actions are not just a matter of policy; they represent a wider pattern of societal erosion. This is not a simple regression to a past era, but a potential descent into a deeply divided society mirroring the stark inequalities of Brazil or a modern iteration of Jim Crow laws. This gradual erosion of rights and freedoms, beginning with access to education and student organizations, could lead to far more severe consequences. The economic instability predicted to accompany these social changes could further exacerbate the already widening wealth gap.
The response to this cannot be passive. The formation of independent, grassroots organizations, less reliant on state resources and therefore less susceptible to political pressure, is crucial. The alternative is to allow the dismantling of support networks for underrepresented groups, further isolating them and exacerbating the already existing inequalities. This is a moment demanding active resistance and a concerted effort to ensure equitable access and opportunity for all students, not just those from the dominant group. It’s not simply about engineering societies; it’s about the very fabric of a just and inclusive society.
The impact on recruitment is also a significant concern. Minority students may be less likely to apply to West Point, or other institutions, if they perceive a hostile and unsupportive environment. This will ultimately weaken the military’s ability to draw from a diverse pool of talent, compromising its effectiveness.
The future of West Point, and higher education more broadly, is at a crossroads. The administration’s actions represent a concerning shift, and it is essential that proactive steps are taken to ensure a more equitable and inclusive future for all students. The current situation demands vigilance, resilience, and a commitment to fight for the values of diversity and inclusion. Ignoring this trend could have devastating consequences for the very fabric of our society.