West Point disbands gender-based, race clubs in Trump’s DEI sweep
West Point Military Academy Disbands Identity-Based Clubs to Comply with Executive Orders
In a move to comply with President Donald Trump’s executive orders and new Pentagon guidance, West Point has disbanded several identity-based clubs at the prestigious military academy. Among the clubs that are no longer sanctioned by the university are the Asian-Pacific Forum, the Korean-American relations seminar, the Latin Cultural Club, the National Society of Black Engineers Club, and the Society of Women Engineers Club.
The decision to dissolve these clubs was made by the U.S. Military Academy communications office, citing their affiliation with the now-defunct office of diversity, equity, and inclusion. According to a statement provided to Fox News Digital, the university is reviewing programs and activities associated with the former DEI office, leading to the dissolution of these clubs.
President Trump has been at the forefront of dismantling DEI initiatives across the federal government since taking office. A memo revealed that a total of twelve clubs were disbanded, while others had their activities paused pending a review by the directorate of cadet activities to revalidate their status.
Despite the disbandment of these identity-based clubs, West Point assures that over one hundred other clubs remain active at the academy. The leadership is committed to providing opportunities for cadets to pursue their academic, military, and physical fitness interests within the boundaries of Army policy, directives, and guidance.
The memo also stipulates that these clubs are no longer allowed to utilize government time, resources, or facilities. This move aligns with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent directive to cease the celebration of “identity” months such as Black History Month and Pride Month within the Department of Defense.
Last year, the Supreme Court upheld race- and gender-based admissions policies at military institutions like West Point, allowing affirmative action programs to continue. The court rejected a challenge to the exceptions made for military academies, affirming their ability to consider diversity in their admissions process.
As West Point navigates these changes, it remains committed to upholding its mission of developing future military leaders. The university continues to adapt to evolving policies while providing a supportive environment for cadets to excel academically and professionally.
