The USNS Harvey Milk is a Navy replenishment oiler named after harvey milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States and a pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist. Harvey Milk also served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, making his name significant to military history and civil rights. The ship was christened in 2021 as a symbol of the Navy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Renaming Directive
Recently, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a directive ordering the renaming of the USNS Harvey Milk. This move is part of a broader push under the Trump administration to reinforce what it calls a "warrior culture" in the military. The directive was given to the Navy Secretary, with plans to announce a new name for the ship soon.
Controversy and Timing
The decision to rename the ship during Pride Month has sparked considerable controversy. Pride Month is dedicated to honoring LGBTQ+ history and achievements, and critics say the renaming undermines those efforts. Many believe the timing is intentional, as it sends a conflicting message about LGBTQ+ recognition within the military.
Reactions from the Community
LGBTQ+ advocates and organizations have strongly condemned the renaming order. Stuart Milk, harvey milk’s nephew and executive chair of the Harvey Milk Foundation, expressed disappointment but affirmed that the legacy of harvey milk would endure despite the renaming. He emphasized the continued fight for equality and inclusion.
Political Backlash
Democratic leaders have publicly criticized the move. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called it a "shameful, vindictive erasure" of an important civil rights legacy. California Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted harvey milk’s service as a Korean War combat veteran and insisted that such contributions deserve respect and remembrance.
Broader Military Policy Context
The renaming of the USNS harvey milk fits within a larger trend under the Trump administration to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the military. This includes removing references to historically marginalized groups from military records and official sites, reflecting a shift in focus away from inclusivity.
What’s Next?
The Navy has yet to announce the new name for the ship. The renaming has raised questions about how the military will continue to honor diverse contributions from all Americans, including LGBTQ+ individuals, going forward.
