Photo Of West Point Cadets Sparks Controversy

Note: we are republishing this story, which originally made the news in May 2016.

The photo appears to show the all-black, all-female cadets raising their fists in a gesture that has lately come to be associated with the controversial movement. However, the gesture has been used for centuries to symbolize resistance by a variety of groups, from labor unions to suffragists to Black Panthers.

The Army Times reports that it received the photo from concerned readers who were worried that the cadets may have violated Department of Defense Directive 1344:10, Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces. The directive discourages cadets from “partisan political activity” when in uniform.

John Burk, a former soldier and now current motivational coach, accused the cadets of aligning themselves with a political movement. He noted on his Facebook page that an anonymous military service member reached out to him to express their concern.

“It’s a really touchy subject here,” the anonymous source told Burk, according to the Daily News. “We can get kicked out of West Point, or forced to repeat years for what is called a ‘respect board.’ They can be given just for making someone upset, so no one wants to get kicked out of college … over something like this.”

Burk’s Facebook post has since gone viral, and many commenters were unhappy with the cadets’ actions.

“Equality means abiding by the same standards,” one commenter wrote. “Kick those WOMEN OUT!”

“All of these cadets should be expelled, immediately!” another said.

It remains to be seen what disciplinary actions the Army will take, if any. The 16 cadets in the photo have yet to be identified.

Sources: Daily NewsArmy Times

Related Posts

20 Minutes ago in New York City, Kelly Ripa was confirmed as…See more

Just 20 minutes ago in New York City, Kelly Ripa was officially confirmed as the new host of The Tonight Show, marking a historic moment in late-night…

Shania Twain catches heat for blonde look at awards show

Shania Twain stepped back into the spotlight last week to host the 2024 People’s Choice Country Music Awards 2024, and the reaction was… well, mixed. At this…

Bon Jovi and Deep Purple icon passes away as grieving family shares heartfelt tribute.

Renowned rock album cover artist Ioannis Vasilopoulos, best known for his work with Bon Jovi and Deep Purple, has died at the age of 66. Ioannis passed…

‘Very lnappropriate’: Users SIam Valerie BertineIIi,

Valerie Bertinelli, 64, stirred conversation after sharing a makeup-free selfie in underwear on Instagram. While she celebrated self-acceptance, the post drew polarized reactions. Bertinelli shared her struggles…

Why the Shark Fin on Your Car Isn’t Just for Looks: What You Need to Know

If you’ve noticed a sleek, fin-shaped structure on the roof of a modern car, you’ve seen what’s called a shark fin antenna. While it may look purely…

30 Minutes ago in Utah, Charlie Kirk’s wife was confirmed as…See more

30 minutes ago in Utah, it was officially confirmed that Charlie Kirk’s wife has been appointed to a prominent role in the state. The announcement comes as…