CRBC News
Politics
Conflict
Security
Economy
Science
Technology
Environment
Health
Culture
Society
Lifestyle
Politics

Coast Guard Reaffirms Ban on Swastikas and Other Hate Symbols, Calls Earlier Report 'False'

01:46 AM, 11/22/2025
Coast Guard Reaffirms Ban on Swastikas and Other Hate Symbols, Calls Earlier Report 'False'

Quick summary: The U.S. Coast Guard issued a policy reaffirming that divisive or hate symbols—including nooses and swastikas—are banned. Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday said such displays harm unit cohesion and will be investigated and punished. The statement was issued after a report suggested some symbols might be reclassified, a claim the Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security have denied.

The U.S. Coast Guard on Thursday evening published a formal policy clarifying that divisive or hate symbols and flags are prohibited within the service. The guidance explicitly lists images tied to hatred and oppression—such as nooses and swastikas—as banned because they undermine unit cohesion and morale.

"Divisive or hate symbols and flags are prohibited," the policy states. Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday emphasized the service's position: the Coast Guard "does not tolerate the display of divisive or hate symbols and flags," and any violations will be investigated and punished appropriately.

The clarification follows a widely circulated report that reviewed draft policy documents and suggested some symbols might be classified as "potentially divisive," with displays subject to supervisory review rather than automatic removal. That report also said the draft included a 45-day window to report incidents.

Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, strongly denied that the new policy softens the ban, calling the earlier account a "ludicrous lie" on social media.

In its formal release, the Coast Guard said the new policy was intended to combat misinformation and leave no doubt that hateful imagery remains forbidden. Admiral Lunday described the earlier claims as "categorically false," reiterating that any display, use or promotion of such symbols "has been and remains prohibited," will be "thoroughly investigated," and that those found in violation will be "severely punished."

The public clarification appears designed to settle the debate and reassure service members and the public that existing prohibitions on extremist and hateful imagery remain in force.

Similar Articles

Trending

Coast Guard Reaffirms Ban on Swastikas and Other Hate Symbols, Calls Earlier Report 'False' - CRBC News