Arlington Cemetery website scrubs links about Black and female veterans

Arlington National Cemetery has taken significant steps to remove online references to prominent Black, Hispanic, and female veterans, in accordance with recent Defense Department directives aimed at eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) content. The cemetery's spokesperson confirmed the removal of internal links to biographies of distinguished figures, including Gen. Colin Powell and Justice Thurgood Marshall, raising alarms among historians and educators about the implications for historical education. Kevin M. Levin, a Civil War historian, criticized the decision, underscoring the necessity of these narratives for students to engage with American history meaningfully.

The cemetery expressed its commitment to returning removed content, aligning with Department of Defense instructions and Executive Orders issued by the President. However, experts warn that restoring this information may be far from straightforward, potentially undermining years of trust and educational progress. Pentagon directives have mandated the removal of all content that promotes DEI, prompting further scrutiny of how military history is presented. The broader implications of these policy changes may affect how diverse service members are recognized and remembered. As discussions continue, the cemetery's actions reflect a growing tension between historical representation and current governmental policies.