Following an initial classification shift, the Coast Guard has reversed course and re-classified swastikas and nooses as hate symbols. Earlier reports indicated these symbols would be categorized as “potentially divisive” in new guidelines. This shift in policy comes after a report brought attention to the initial change. The updated classification was announced on November 21, 2025.
The U.S. Coast Guard released a new policy late Thursday that explicitly prohibits the display of hate symbols such as swastikas and nooses, reversing a previous plan to label them as “potentially divisive.” This updated policy clarifies that these symbols are strictly forbidden across all Coast Guard locations, a shift from an earlier version that allowed for their removal but did not outright ban them. The change came after public outcry and scrutiny following the discovery of the initial, more lenient policy. The Coast Guard stated the update was meant to combat misinformation and reaffirm its stance against hate symbols.
John Q. Hosedrinker