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Note: we are republishing this story, which originally made the news in May 2016.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

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joe Biden

The news hit like a quiet shock. Joe Biden, a man so often seen as steady and unshakable, now faces a moment that tests more than policy…

Inside the hectic life of Australia’s biggest family

When Jeni first met her husband Ray, she was certain of one thing — she never wanted children. “Ray wanted at least four kids. I thought that…

Father takes his s0n’s life after finding out he is ga… See more

A recent family incident has brought renewed attention to an issue that extends far beyond a single household—the importance of understanding, compassion, and unconditional support within families….

Inside the race to replace Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary during maternity leave

The most immediate option lies within the existing communications team. Anna Kelly has emerged as a leading internal figure. As Principal Deputy Press Secretary, she already operates…

The Greenpower Tragedy – How a Dream Field Trip Turned into a Highway Nightmare for Kenwood Middle School

A Journey Interrupted The morning of March 28, 2026, began with the kind of anticipation that often comes with a school trip. Students from Kenwood Middle School…

What Popular Interpretations Say About Baba Vanga’s Views on Prosperity

Throughout history, many cultures have believed that certain moments in time bring opportunities for renewal and transformation. These moments are often described not as sudden events, but…