Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Pentagon Halts Diversity Celebrations Amidst Trump-Era Ban

Following President Trump’s ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) has suspended observances of eleven annual events, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Pride Month, and Black History Month. This action, initiated by the DIA and not yet department-wide policy, stems from ongoing ambiguity surrounding the executive order. The pause affects agency-sponsored events but not national holidays, according to a DIA memo. Defense Secretary Hegseth has since established a task force to eliminate all remaining DEI programs within the Pentagon, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to this policy. The White House, however, maintains its intention to celebrate American history and the contributions of all citizens.

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Alabama & Mississippi Honor Robert E. Lee on MLK Day: A Racist Tradition Persists

In Alabama and Mississippi, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is jointly observed with Robert E. Lee Day, a legacy from early 20th-century state legislation honoring Confederate leaders. This juxtaposition of figures with opposing legacies persists despite repeated legislative efforts by Black lawmakers in both states to separate the holidays. Recent attempts to either remove Lee’s recognition or reschedule his observance have failed to gain sufficient support. While other Southern states have removed or altered similar Confederate holidays, Alabama and Mississippi remain the only two states that continue this practice.

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