Overview
- A newly published Coast Guard document replacing the term “hate incident” classifies symbols such as a swastika and a noose as “potentially divisive,” with the changes slated to take effect Dec. 15.
- Acting Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday said claims of loosening rules are “categorically false,” asserting such imagery remains prohibited and will be investigated and punished.
- DHS public affairs chief Tricia McLaughlin rejected initial reporting on the change as false, while the Coast Guard said it would review and clarify the language.
- The updated guidance introduces a 45‑day deadline to report incidents and routes cases through harassment procedures, drawing concern that sailors at sea could be discouraged from reporting.
- Newsweek reports the service has now revised the text to state that “divisive or hate symbols and flags are prohibited,” explicitly listing a swastika and a noose, as advocacy groups and members of Congress pressed for a clear reversal.