Preserve our History

WHEREAS, Recent executive orders aimed at eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) spending and revoking federal diversity guidelines. These orders have resulted in the closure of federal DEI offices, the rescinding of previous executive orders promoting racial equity, and the termination of DEI-related contracts and grants; and

WHEREAS, The executive orders have led to the removal of DEI policies across federal agencies, and impacting website content by removing historical figures of color such as Jackie Robinson, the Tuskegee Airmen, and the Navajo Code Talkers; and

WHEREAS, This action, reportedly part of a Department of Defense-wide purge of DEI policies, has led to the erasure of pages honoring contributions people of color, women and LGBTQIA+; and

WHEREAS, The Department of Defense has removed content honoring Black, Hispanic, and women war veterans from its websites as part of a broader effort to eliminate DEI-related materials. The Pentagon has defended these actions, stating that diversity should not be considered a primary strength of the military; and

WHEREAS, One notable example is the removal of a webpage dedicated to Army Maj. Gen. Charles Calvin Rogers, a Black Medal of Honor recipient, Navy Adm. Lisa Franchetti, and Gen. CQ Brown Jr. Additionally, the removal of historical content has raised concern among veterans, who argue that these actions contribute to historical erasure and undermine the recognition of marginalized communities; and

WHEREAS, There are currently 95,000 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and out of these places, 2% focus on the experiences of Black Americans. Losing any of these sites not only affects the Black community but also impacts future generations who wish to learn more about their ancestors and history; and

WHEREAS, Highlighting Black accomplishments and contributions to American history is essential for ensuring a more complete and accurate understanding of the nation's past. It also acknowledges the history of systemic oppression that was used to diminish Black voices and Black participation in society. Efforts to elevate these stories often face challenges, especially in the wake of policies that restrict diverse initiatives; and

WHEREAS, Historical erases have occurred in various contexts throughout history, often to control narratives, suppress marginalized voices, or reshape public memory. Stripping future generations of the knowledge to understand how racism has shaped America; and

WHEREAS, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) stands opposed to the elimination and erasure of the history all people of color on all government websites, and historic records.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the NAACP will continue to fight to protect and preserve the history of all people of color, woman and the LGBTQIA+ community by safeguarding both tangible sites and intangible cultural heritage, such as oral traditions and stories. This includes preserving historical sites, like Black churches, schools, settlements and museums, as well as documenting and celebrating African American cultural achievements, voices, and experiences.