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Note: we are republishing this story, which originally made the news in May 2016.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

Sad News on Obama Family

In May 2024, the Obama family faced another loss with the passing of Marian Robinson, Michelle Obama’s mother. At 86, Marian had been a constant source of…

10 signs of dementia you should never ignore – and the habits you should start today

We all have those moments—walking into a room and forgetting why, or struggling to recall the name of a distant acquaintance. But there is a profound, chilling…

Sad News About Terry Bradshaw

He looked invincible on Sundays, a golden-armed titan standing tall amidst the roar of the Steel Curtain. But behind the four Super Bowl rings and the blinding…

Louisiana shooter Shamar Elkins’ chilling remarks before killing his 7 kids and their cousin

An unimaginable tragedy in Louisiana took place Sunday as a man, identified as Shamar Elkins, killed his seven children and their cousin before he was fatally shot…

Donald Trump sparks concerns after sharing chilling post stating “the end is near”

Donald Trump has been surrounded by concerns regarding his health for a long time. Now, a newly shared video the U.S President has posted has put more…

Early heart attack signs as ‘Melrose Place’ actor Patrick Muldoon dies at 57

Days of Our Lives and Melrose Place actor Patrick Muldoon has died at the age of 57 after a sudden heart attack. It’s something you can’t predict,…