The Pentagon initially removed webpages highlighting the contributions of Navajo Code Talkers and other Native American veterans as part of a sweep to eliminate content promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Following an executive order from President Trump, thousands of pages honoring minority groups were deleted, only to be restored after tribes expressed their concerns. The Navajo Code Talker material was mistakenly erased, the Pentagon stated.
The removal of these pages was part of an automated review process searching for content related to DEI initiatives. The Defense Department assured that historic achievements by servicemen and women of color, such as the Code Talkers and Jackie Robinson, would not be omitted. Despite some pages being re-posted, concerns remain that the removal of web content may be just the beginning.
Navajo Code Talkers played a crucial role in World War II by developing an unbreakable code based on the Navajo language, assisting in the U.S. victory in the Pacific. Their legacy, along with other Native American veterans, is an integral part of American history. The Navajo Nation, along with other tribes and leaders, continues to advocate for the recognition and preservation of these important contributions.
Individuals such as Peter MacDonald, the last living Navajo Code Talker, expressed concern over the erasing of this history and emphasized the importance of remembering and honoring their service. Others, like Michael Smith, whose father was a Code Talker, question the rationale behind the removal of such content and underscore the need to protect and celebrate the contributions of Native American veterans.
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