The US Navy is planning to rename the USNS Harvey Milk, a ship named after the iconic gay rights activist and Navy veteran. This decision comes during Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and remembering the Stonewall riots of 1969.
Documents obtained by CBS News reveal that the Navy aims to align its culture with the values of the Trump administration, which has sought to diminish diversity initiatives in federal agencies. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that the renaming is part of a broader effort to reinforce a "warrior culture" within the military.
In addition to the USNS Harvey Milk, other ships, like those named after Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Harriet Tubman, might also see their names changed. This action is accompanied by a directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, aimed at banning events tied to awareness months like Pride Month and Black History Month, which some believe could disrupt military unity.
Historically, Harvey Milk was the first openly gay man elected to public office in California, serving on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. His legacy is significant in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, but the current move to strip his name from the ship has drawn sharp criticism. For example, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi called it a "vindictive erasure." Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer echoed these sentiments, calling for an immediate reversal of the renaming decision.
As of 2021, only about 6% of military personnel identified as LGBTQ+. The push towards inclusivity in the military is crucial, as it aims to create a more welcoming environment for all service members. Critics argue that renaming ships after civil rights icons serves not only to honor their contributions but also to inspire current and future generations to continue advocating for equality.
For further details on LGBTQ+ representation in the military, you can check the relevant report from the Pentagon here.