In a recent memo, a senior Army official instructed Army libraries, including West Point, to remove books that promote DEI, gender ideology, and critical race theory in a way that undermines meritocracy and unity. This directive was issued by acting Assistant Secretary of the Army Derrick Anderson, with a deadline of April 16th for providing a list of such documents. The memo, dated April 9th, was disclosed by NPR.

Notably, the order to remove books was later revised to a “flagging” system following concerns raised by top Army officials. West Point spokesman Col. Terence Kelley affirmed the institution’s commitment to conducting the review professionally and promptly. While no books have been removed yet, this policy extends to all Army libraries.

This initiative at West Point follows the U.S. Naval Academy’s removal of nearly 400 books from its library due to similar apprehensions expressed by the previous Trump Administration. The contentious books at the Naval Academy included works by Maya Angelou, discussions on white supremacy groups, and analyses of police violence and race relations.

Lawmakers have voiced apprehension over these actions, likening them to McCarthy-era censorship. Concerns have been raised about potential book bans at West Point, prompting inquiries from Rep. Adam Smith and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan. Additionally, a letter sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized the removals, arguing that censoring diverse voices contradicts the principles of a democratic society and impedes critical inquiry in educational settings.