The U.S. Coast Guard swiftly reversed course on Thursday, reinstating a strict policy prohibiting the display of swastikas, nooses, and other hate symbols after widespread backlash over a draft directive that downgraded their classification to “potentially divisive”. The updated policy explicitly forbids the display, use, or distribution of swastikas, nooses, and any symbols or flags appropriated by hate-driven groups for supremacist, racist, or anti-Semitic purposes—bringing Coast Guard rules back in line with broader military standards and longstanding public expectations.
Policy Controversy and Swift Response
Earlier this month, Coast Guard documents obtained by The Washington Post revealed plans to soften the official stance on hate symbols, moving swastikas and nooses from the “hate symbols” category to “potentially divisive,” a change set to take effect December 15. The proposed draft received immediate condemnation from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and military personnel for potentially undermining protections—and for allowing deeply offensive imagery to be displayed in Coast Guard facilities.
Faced with mounting criticism, acting Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday issued an unequivocal memo late Thursday reaffirming that divisive or hate symbols—including swastikas and nooses—are banned throughout the service, promising thorough investigations and severe repercussions for any violations. The Department of Homeland Security also clarified there was no relaxation of the current rules, stating the new directive “doubles down” on existing prohibitions to combat misinformation circulating in the media.
Military Extremism and Cultural Impact
The incident highlighted ongoing challenges across the U.S. armed forces to confront extremism in the ranks. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other officials have faced political scrutiny regarding diversity and inclusion policies, but Coast Guard leadership stressed that rooting out hate and extremist imagery upholds the organization’s core values and national interests. For many service members and observers, the Coast Guard’s reversal was a clear signal against tolerance for racism or anti-Semitism in the U.S. military.
The restored policy takes effect immediately, ensuring swastikas, nooses, and similar symbols remain strictly off-limits for Coast Guard personnel and installations.