The Army and Air Force have been instructed to review their libraries for books related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), according to new memos. These orders follow a similar action by the U.S. Naval Academy, which recently removed nearly 400 books after being directed by the Department of Defense to eliminate content promoting DEI.
These latest memos reflect ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to purge DEI-related material from federal agencies. However, the Army and Air Force appear to be taking a more cautious approach, suggesting that books will only be removed after careful review. This is likely in response to criticism faced by the Navy for removing books like Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” and works on topics such as the Holocaust, feminism, civil rights, and racism.
The Army’s directive affects several institutions, including West Point and the Army War College. It orders the removal of books promoting DEI, gender ideology, and critical race theory if they undermine meritocracy and unity. The Army’s chief librarian is expected to receive an initial list by Wednesday, and additional guidance will follow. Similarly, the Air Force Academy has been asked to provide an interim list of books by April 30, with a final list due by May 30.
Although military academies were initially exempt from a Trump-era executive order banning DEI-related content in K-12 schools receiving federal funds, the Pentagon has since moved to address this gap, directing the services to review and remove such material.
The Air Force and Army have stated they are reviewing their libraries in compliance with department policies. Some lawmakers and citizens have expressed concern over the removal of military heroes and significant historical content, prompting the Pentagon to take action to restore some of these posts on Defense Department platforms.