The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, recently completed a significant review of its library holdings, ultimately removing almost 400 books. The initiative was prompted by a directive from the office of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth aimed at eliminating materials that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), according to sources familiar with the matter. The task was initiated last week after an internal review had initially flagged around 900 books for further examination. By Monday, approximately 400 books had been taken off the library shelves.
The removal of these books marks a continuation of the Trump administration’s extensive efforts to wipe out DEI content across various federal entities, including departments and military schools. This movement spans beyond library content, extending to reevaluating policies, programs, and educational curriculums to align with executive orders. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell reaffirmed on Tuesday that service academies are committed to enforcing the executive orders.
Although President Donald Trump’s executive order issued in January—which restricted DEI educational practices—did not directly target higher education institutions like the Naval Academy, the Pentagon’s recent focus on the academy came after media scrutiny highlighted the presence of DEI-promoting materials within its library. An official, speaking anonymously, mentioned the academy was ordered to undertake this review last week, though the origin of the instruction within Hegseth’s office remains uncertain.
As similar initiatives are underway at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the Air Force Academy, officials confirm reviews have been conducted, with the Air Force Academy continuing to evaluate its curriculum to ensure compliance with federal policies. Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, representing the Air Force Academy, reported to Congress that a comprehensive review of their coursework is in progress.
The campaign to eliminate DEI content across military platforms has sparked a backlash and demanded clarifications from various lawmakers and community leaders, particularly concerning the removal of certain notable historical mentions online. As a result, some postings have been quickly restored amid broader public inquiries. A recent misstep further highlighted the complexities involved, as Naval Academy staff inadvertently removed photos of renowned Jewish female graduates to prepare for Hegseth’s visit. The photos have since been reinstated following a Navy statement that described corrective actions being taken.
During Hegseth’s visit to the Naval Academy on Tuesday, he engaged with students and partook in lunch, though the media was notably excluded from covering the event. Such engagements underscore ongoing debates about DEI policies within federal institutions.