Republican Lawmakers Demand Firing of VA Official Over Controversial Memo on V-J Day Photograph
In a recent development, two Republican lawmakers, Montana Sen. Steve Daines and Rep. Ryan Zinke, have called for the removal of a Veterans Affairs (VA) official responsible for a memo that directed the removal of the iconic V-J Day in Times Square photograph from VA health care centers. The lawmakers wrote to VA Secretary Denis McDonough after an X account, “End Wokeness,” published the memo sent from Assistant Under Secretary for Health Operations RimaAnn Nelson.
The memo, which has since been rescinded, called for the historic photo of a Navy sailor kissing a woman in Times Square on V-J Day in 1945 to be removed from all VA medical buildings. Nelson argued that the photograph was inconsistent with the VA’s no-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment and assault. However, Secretary McDonough overrode the memo and stated that the image is not banned from VA facilities and will continue to be displayed.
Daines and Zinke criticized the memo as “only the most recent in a long line of misguided actions and woke agendas dictating the management of the VA.” They questioned the process for drafting and approving the memo, expressing concerns about its timing amid recruitment and retention issues, hiring freezes, and budgetary constraints within the VA.
In response to the lawmakers’ demands, McDonough defended Nelson, stating that she has dedicated her career to serving veterans and will remain at VA. McDonough also clarified that the memo should not have been sent out and confirmed its rescission. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that the memo was not sanctioned by the administration.
The controversial memo raised debates about the appropriateness of celebrating historical images in today’s environment, especially within institutions committed to creating a safe and respectful workplace. Nelson argued that perspectives on historical events and their representations evolve, prompting discussions about consent and inclusivity.
The lawmakers called for the reassessment of the VA’s priorities, urging the organization to prioritize veterans’ needs over political policies. They demanded accountability for those responsible for the misguided memo, starting with the termination of Nelson’s employment at the VA.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Republicans and Democrats over cultural and ideological issues within the US government. Critics argue that such actions prioritize political correctness over the well-being and priorities of veterans. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the VA will address these concerns and ensure an inclusive and respectful environment for all.
