Pentagon Bans 596 Books from Military Schools, Citing Radical Themes

A U.S. district court released a list of 596 banned books from Pentagon-run schools, highlighting concerns over radical ideologies and explicit content. The list, included in a lawsuit by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) against the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), includes books with sexual LGBT themes, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) messaging, and other left-wing perspectives.
Nicole Kiprilov of DOD Watch criticized the inclusion of such material, stating, "Our DoDEA schools are not playgrounds for left-wing activists pushing race-baiting, gender confusion, and anti-American propaganda." The banned books include works like "My Dad Thinks I'm a Boy?!: A Trans Positive Children's Book," "Dude, You're a Fag: Masculinity and Sexuality in High School," and "Sex Is a Funny Word: A Book about Bodies, Feelings, and YOU." The list also bans books by leftist authors such as Ibram X. Kendi and Robin DiAngelo, as well as a children's biography of Rachel Levine, the first openly transgender government official.
The Trump administration has pushed to remove LGBT themes, DEI, and other leftist ideas from Pentagon schools, emphasizing a return to traditional values. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has focused on eliminating left-wing talking points and restoring a "warrior ethos." However, House Democrats have opposed this move, claiming it violates the constitutional rights of military families.
The Pentagon has not yet responded to the allegations. This controversy highlights growing tensions over curriculum and ideological influence in military education.

Published: 7/17/2025