WEST POINT, N.Y. — The U.S. Military Academy at West Point has discontinued twelve cadet organizations that focus on aspects such as ethnicity, gender, race, and sexual orientation. This decision follows directives from the Trump administration aimed at dismantling diversity programs within the federal sector.
In a recent memo, West Point announced the closure of various clubs, including the Asian-Pacific Forum Club, the Latin Cultural Club, the National Society of Black Engineers Club, and the Society of Women Engineers Club. Additionally, the Corbin Forum, a long-established leadership group for female cadets, and Spectrum, an LGBTQ+ alliance, were also disbanded. These actions are in alignment with the latest instructions received from the Army and the Department of Defense.
In the previous month, President Donald Trump signed an executive order focused on curtailing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the federal government. This order also included provisions to place federal diversity staff on paid leave, with the eventual goal of layoffs.
The memo from West Point instructed all remaining cadet clubs to suspend their activities while the administration reviews their compliance with the newly instituted Trump administration policies. The statement issued by the academy indicated they are examining the programs related to the previously affiliated office of diversity and inclusion responsible for sponsoring the now-closed clubs.
“There are still over one hundred clubs available at the U.S. Military Academy, and leadership will keep providing cadets opportunities to pursue varied interests—academic, military, and physical fitness—in accordance with Army policy and directives,” the statement elaborated.
Inquiries regarding the memo were directed to the Army and West Point by the Department of Defense, which provided a link to the latest guidance from the Defense Department. This guidance emphasized that “Moving forward, DoD Components and Military Departments will not utilize official resources, including personnel time, for events or celebrations related to cultural awareness months” like Black History Month.
According to Defense officials, efforts that create divisions within the military and prioritize one group over another undermine unity and jeopardize operational effectiveness.
Geoffrey Easterling, a West Point alumnus and former member of one of the disbanded clubs, reflected that these groups were inclusive and created a space for cadets to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and foster relationships. “It was simply community. There was no teaching associated with the concerns people are expressing now. You could find assistance with your studies from upperclassmen and get guidance on navigating military life,” he stated.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives aim to support groups that have historically faced marginalization. However, such programs have faced backlash from conservative critics who claim that they discriminate against white individuals. In recent times, the nation’s military academies have gradually become more racially inclusive and have seen an increase in female admissions, yet female cadets and cadets of color have voiced challenges regarding the hostility they have had to confront.
