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Note: we are republishing this story, which originally made the news in May 2016.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

JD Vance with tears in their eyes make the sad announcement…

The response from the United Kingdom was swift and pointed. British veterans and military figures condemned Vance’s comments, highlighting the 636 British soldiers who lost their lives…

SCOTUS Turns Away College Bias Response Team Challenge; Thomas, Alito Dissent

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to consider the constitutionality of college bias response teams on Monday. The court rejected a lawsuit from Speech First, a group advocating…

Legendary actor passed away at 48…

Fans are in shock as representatives confirmed the sudden passing of a beloved Hollywood actor at 48, stating he had “gone to heaven.” Known for standout roles…

Search For Missing 10-Month-Old Baby Has Come To An End After 36 Hours

Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in December 2023. In a tragic turn of events, an Idaho infant, 10-month-old Zeke Best, was…

Zookeepers refuse to save drowning chimpanzee – then a truck driver breaks into his cage

First and foremost: we don’t think wild animals belong in zoos. Chimpanzees, for example, should be allowed to live their lives in freedom. No matter how much…

Trump’s statement after fatal FSU shooting sparks outrage

Another fatal school shooting has occurred in America. At Florida State University, a shooter opened fire at students, resulting in two fatalities and six people injured. After…