1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and dismay regarding the recent actions surrounding Arlington National Cemetery’s website. As reported, the cemetery has purged important educational pages about notable Black, Hispanic, and female veterans, as well as significant aspects of American history, including the Civil War and Black history. These actions are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to diminish references to diversity and inclusion across federal government websites, including those related to the military. The removal of these crucial educational resources is an affront to the memory of those who have sacrificed for our country, particularly the veterans from historically marginalized communities. By erasing the stories of Black, Hispanic, and female veterans from the public record, we are not only dishonoring their service but also erasing vital narratives of struggle and triumph that are integral to the American experience. The disappearance of pages that commemorate the Civil Rights Movement, Black war heroes, and the history of African Americans in the military is an action that seeks to erase an essential part of our national history. It is deeply troubling to witness the deliberate attempt to sanitize the history of this country in a way that disregards the contributions of all those who have fought for the freedoms we enjoy. Furthermore, these actions reflect an ongoing and harmful push to exclude the contributions and experiences of diverse communities in our nation’s story. It is disheartening to see the Pentagon’s broader attempts to limit cultural celebrations and heritage observances, including Black History Month, LGBTQ Pride Month, Women’s History Month, and more. These efforts to suppress diversity, equity, and inclusion not only undermine the values this country was built upon but also weaken the rich fabric of our national identity. I urge you, Governor Abbott, to take a stand against this erasure of history and to advocate for the preservation of diversity and inclusion within our public institutions. The stories of our veterans, regardless of their race or gender, are integral to understanding the full breadth of American history, and they must be preserved, celebrated, and shared with future generations. I ask that you publicly condemn these actions and support the restoration of the erased content on the cemetery’s website. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that history is remembered in all its complexity, and that the contributions of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or background, are honored. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.