Category: Intolerance

‘An Appeal to Heaven’ flag seen hanging at Education Department office

A senior official at the U.S. Department of Education has displayed the "An Appeal to Heaven" flag outside his office, according to union leadership and department staff. The flag, historically tied to the American Revolution, has been adopted in recent years by evangelical Christian nationalist groups, the Proud Boys, and neo-Nazi organizations, and was carried by rioters during the January 6 Capitol assault.

Murray Bessette, principal deputy assistant secretary in the Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development, has kept the banner hanging at the agency's Washington office. The flag's presence at an institution overseeing billions in federal education funding violates the separation of church and state and contradicts the agency's responsibility to serve all students regardless of religious affiliation.

Rachel Gittleman, president of the Education Department union, stated the agency "has no place for symbols that were carried by insurrectionists" and noted that employees have endured threats and harassment since January while now being forced to work under a symbol representing "intolerance, hatred, and extremism." The union directly linked the flag's display to ongoing demoralization within the department.

The Education Department did not confirm the flag's existence or address extremist associations. Deputy Assistant Secretary Madi Biedermann dismissed concerns as "imagined grievances" rather than addressing the documented history of the symbol's adoption by extremist movements.

The flag has appeared at multiple federal agencies and with high-ranking officials in recent months, including at the Small Business Administration in June and outside the vacation home of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito in 2023. House Speaker Mike Johnson has also displayed the symbol outside his Capitol Hill office.

(Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/12/15/flag-appeal-to-heaven-education-department/87778953007/?utm_campaign=trueanthem&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwdGRleAOvHStleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeGxD1KOqmayUcnMh7ghzmxyHAYGXloFm0oOnqT9P-iDZsL_Ld74VKbBhHR6c_aem_jtc8a0ueUHKs5OzrVNTLGg)

Mark Levin Hails Trump as ‘The First Jewish President’

Fox News host Mark Levin declared Trump “the first Jewish president” during a White House Hanukkah reception on December 17, 2025, stating Trump should be remembered “for a thousand years” by Jewish people. Trump confirmed Levin’s statement, claiming he is “the first Jewish president to serve two non-consecutive presidencies” and asserting, without evidence, that “bad things happened on the second one. Namely, the election was rigged.”

Levin first made the same declaration about Trump in 2019, stating it would be “an honor” to recognize him as such a president. The Fox News host has maintained this characterization despite previously criticizing Trump administration policies, writing in October that there were “echos of Biden” in the White House and repeatedly attacking Trump allies including Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson.

Trump’s claim of a “rigged” election contradicts documented election results and court findings across multiple jurisdictions. No credible evidence supports assertions that the 2020 election was fraudulent, and courts rejected over 60 lawsuits challenging election integrity.

The characterization of Trump as a Jewish president lacks religious basis. Trump is Presbyterian; his daughter Ivanka converted to Judaism to marry her husband, Jared Kushner, but Trump himself is not Jewish by faith or heritage.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/media/tv/foxs-mark-levin-hails-trump-as-the-first-jewish-president-at-hanukkah-reception/)

Laughing Trump Drops Stunning Admission to Screaming Fans — ‘Sh*thole Countries’ Rant He Denied Was Real

During a recent rally at the Mount Airy Casino Resort, President Donald Trump openly acknowledged his infamous “sh*thole countries” comment, revealing that he still holds disdain for predominantly Black nations while favoring those like Norway and Denmark. Laughter erupted among his supporters as Trump recounted how he questioned the rationale behind accepting immigrants from troubled nations like Somalia and Haiti.

In his speech, Trump faced mounting economic criticism, calling concerns over rising prices a “con job,” and asserted that he had already resolved these issues. The rally was a response to unfavorable polling data that highlighted his declining popularity concerning economic management.

Trump’s emphasis on a permanent pause on immigration from what he termed “hell holes” illustrates his continued focus on anti-immigration rhetoric. This tone has become a hallmark of his public speaking, which resonates with his base but raises alarms regarding his attitudes toward race and immigration.

The event showcased the former president refining his controversial views in front of a supportive crowd, reaffirming his commitment to restricting immigration from certain countries while promoting his narrative of economic recovery. Such language and themes are indicative of his broader attempts to solidify his political base amid ongoing scrutiny.

Trump’s remarks not only reignite the debate over his immigration policies but also reflect his enduring brand of divisive politics, as he leverages humor and inflammatory statements to maintain his support during tumultuous times.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/laughing-trump-drops-stunning-admission-to-screaming-fans-shthole-countries-rant-he-denied-was-real/)

Trump Rejects ASL Access, Claims It’s a Threat to Control

The Trump administration is embroiled in a lawsuit concerning American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services, which the Department of Justice claims would impede the President’s ability to control his public image. This follows a lawsuit filed by the National Association for the Deaf, arguing that halting ASL interpretation denies the deaf community access to essential information from the White House. The association highlights the ongoing struggle for meaningful communication access, particularly during significant national events.

Government attorneys assert that providing real-time ASL interpretation could disrupt Trump’s carefully crafted image and messaging. They suggested alternative forms of access, such as online transcripts and closed captioning, while questioning whether other government branches would face similar demands for such services. Critics note the lack of a compelling argument for why ASL interpretation might damage Trump’s image.

Despite having begun to provide some ASL interpretation, the White House has appealed a federal judge’s ruling that mandated real-time interpreting for Trump’s comments. The administration’s ongoing refusal to comply fully aligns with its broader trend of dismantling diversity and inclusion initiatives. This effort has been part of Trump’s agenda since returning to office, reflecting an administration characterized by its opposition to inclusivity efforts.

The Biden administration had previously utilized ASL interpretation regularly for press briefings and public communications. By contrast, Trump’s refusal has raised significant backlash from advocates for the deaf community, who argue that the right to access information is fundamental. The criticism highlights a troubling disregard for inclusivity that many see as indicative of Trump’s broader governance style.

In the context of broader cultural changes, Trump’s administration has made headlines for reversing various diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. These actions extend beyond communication access and reflect a more general trend of retrenchment against modern inclusion standards across federal institutions.

(Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/sign-language-services-intrude-on-trumps-ability-to-control-his-image-administration-says?fbclid=IwdGRleAOqX5BleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeHJfMLdhICo9nd7vHzSUY2cYHrNRToiWt-kC7POMm7phct9AN-695oabeAjw_aem_UWDFChTHUxTGRfUzJy8nAA)

National Park Service Adds Trump’s Birthday as Fee-Free Day

The National Park Service (NPS) has eliminated Juneteenth and Martin Luther King Jr. Day as fee-free admission days, instead designating President Donald Trump’s birthday as a new fee-free day. This change affects over 11 sites managed by the NPS in Georgia, such as the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area and Kennesaw Mountain.

In addition to Trump’s birthday, other new dates for free admission in 2026 include Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day weekend, and special birthdays for the NPS and Theodore Roosevelt. Significant previously designated fee-free days like National Public Lands Day and anniversaries related to the Great American Outdoors Act have also been removed from the list.

Alongside these changes, nonresidents will face a new fee structure, including a $100 charge for each individual aged 16 and older, alongside standard entrance fees at several parks, though this does not apply to locations in Georgia. The directive has garnered criticism, emphasizing a shift in the NPS’s approach to commemorating important historical milestones and promoting inclusivity.

This decision, particularly the elevation of a controversial figure’s birthday while sidelining civil rights milestones, has sparked backlash from various communities advocating for the equitable representation of all Americans in national spaces.

(Source: https://www.wabe.org/national-park-service-removes-juneteenth-mlk-day-as-fee-free-days-adds-trumps-birthday/)

Trump’s Unapologetic Bigotry Against Somali Immigrants

President Donald Trump recently launched a xenophobic tirade, labeling Somali immigrants as “garbage” and expressing his disdain for their presence in the United States. His comments were made during a cabinet meeting, where he voiced a sentiment that is increasingly indicative of the nativist rhetoric he employs regarding immigration. Trump’s history of insulting Black individuals, particularly from African nations, makes this outburst especially troubling.

While speaking on Somali immigrants, Trump declared, “When they come from hell and they complain and do nothing but bitch, we don’t want them in our country.” These remarks were particularly targeted at Representative Ilhan Omar, a Somali refugee and U.S. citizen, whom he derogatorily called “garbage.” This kind of language has been a hallmark of Trump’s political strategy, as he frequently associates immigrants with crime and societal decay.

Despite appearing disengaged during parts of the meeting, Trump fiercely reacted when immigration was brought up, indicating a strategic shift towards an anti-immigrant stance amid mounting pressures over his administration’s shortcomings. His comments followed a shooting incident linked to an Afghan national, which he exploited to intensify his criticism of immigrant communities, particularly in Minnesota.

Local leaders, including the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul, condemned Trump’s remarks as reckless and dangerous, invoking the principle of inclusion in America’s founding creed. Mayor Melvin Carter emphasized the importance of defining who is included in “We the People,” highlighting the need for a more equitable understanding of citizenship.

Trump’s attack on Somali immigrants aligns with broader patterns of dehumanizing language used by his administration, reflecting a dangerous normalization of hate. Experts caution that such rhetoric may incite violence against marginalized groups, further underscoring the immediate threat posed by Trump’s ongoing inflammatory discourse.

Noem Urges Trump for Nationwide Travel Ban on Immigrants

Kristi Noem, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, pressed President Donald Trump to implement a comprehensive travel ban targeting countries she labels as “flooding our nation with killers, leeches, and entitlement junkies.” In a post on social media, she expressed her view that America’s ancestors built the nation for its citizens, not for foreign individuals, stating, “WE DON’T WANT THEM. NOT ONE.”

Noem’s call for a travel ban reflects Trump’s recent promises to “permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries,” particularly following violent incidents attributed to immigrants, including a shooting involving a suspected Afghan national. Trump has criticized existing immigration policies, insisting they undermine American society and finance, stating that migrants benefit disproportionately from U.S. resources.

Noem’s focus on immigration policies aligns with Trump’s broader immigration agenda, which features extreme measures such as denaturalizing migrants deemed detrimental to national cohesion, ending federal benefits for non-citizens, and aggressive deportation policies. Both officials are vocal about viewing immigration as a central issue affecting national security and social stability.

This rhetoric from Noem and Trump echoes an intensifying trend in Republican politics, wherein immigration is depicted as a significant threat. Their comments play into a narrative that directly targets specific nationalities while advocating measures that many deem as xenophobic and divisive.

As their statements draw further attention, they contribute to an ongoing dialogue about the future of immigration in the U.S. amid rising tensions and increasing calls for stricter enforcement of immigration laws. Their extreme posturing reinforces a culture of fear and aggression toward immigrants in American political discourse.

Pentagon Grants Press Credentials to Extremist Laura Loomer

The Pentagon has credentialed Laura Loomer, a divisive right-wing activist, to cover President Trump’s Department of Defense. Loomer announced her credentialing on social media, claiming her work has significantly influenced personnel decisions within the Executive Branch and intelligence agencies. This decision is part of the Pentagon’s recent media policy shifts aimed at promoting more conservative and alternative media.

Loomer is known for her controversial attacks against even some of Trump’s allies, a fact that has drawn criticism from multiple quarters, including within the Republican Party. Her influence raises alarms about the Pentagon’s increasing alignment with extremist viewpoints. Loomer had previously criticized Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth over plans to host a Qatari air force facility in Idaho, arguing it was opposed by Trump supporters.

The credentialing follows reports that major news outlets, such as The Hill and The New York Times, have declined to accept the Pentagon’s new press policy. This policy drastically restricts media access and aims to control the flow of information from the Department of Defense, indicating a troubling trend in governmental transparency and press freedoms.

This development occurs against the backdrop of the Trump administration’s ongoing transformation of media engagement, notably favoring voices that align with far-right ideologies. Critics view this as a threat to journalistic integrity and an attempt to marginalize traditional news organizations that uphold independent reporting standards.

As Loomer’s credentialing illustrates the growing influence of extremist figures in the realm of American politics, it poses serious questions about the future of military and governmental media relations under Trump’s administration.

Trump’s ‘Third World’ Immigration Ban Threatens Rights

Donald Trump announced a plan to “permanently pause” immigration from what he refers to as “third world countries” following a shooting incident involving National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C. This announcement came just hours after the tragic death of Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom and escalated Trump’s already inflammatory rhetoric on immigration. His proposal includes the “reverse migration” of millions of migrants currently residing in the U.S.

In a lengthy social media post, Trump vowed to eliminate Biden’s immigration policies and deport individuals he deems “non-compatible with Western Civilization.” He specifically indicated that visa issuance for Afghan nationals has been stopped, tying the pause to national security concerns despite the context of ongoing conflicts in those regions.

The president also threatened to strip federal benefits from noncitizens and to reassess the u.s. status of green card holders from 19 countries, particularly focusing on Somalia. Previous remarks directed at the Somali community in Minnesota had incited concern and drawn reactions of criticism from various advocacy groups.

Critics, including U.N. officials and migrant advocacy organizations, have condemned Trump’s actions and rhetoric as harmful and unconstitutional. They warn that using one tragic event to justify a crackdown on all immigrants, especially Afghan refugees, undermines fundamental American values and legal protections. These proposals are likely to face significant legal challenges if pursued.

Trump’s language and policies hark back to previous attempts to ban visas from majority-Muslim countries, which faced substantial opposition and legal scrutiny during his first term. The increasingly aggressive stance against immigrants reflects broader authoritarian tendencies and has sparked alarm among civil liberties organizations.

FEMA Chief Karen Evans Cuts Funding, Targets Muslim Groups

Karen Evans, the new FEMA chief, previously served as a senior adviser tasked with tightening spending controls at the agency. Known as the “terminator,” she has gained a reputation for slashing grants, contracts, and staff, often prioritizing budget alignment with the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) agenda over community needs. Critics have described Evans’ oversight as excessively rigid, hampering the agency’s ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

Evans has been accused of orchestrating the removal of numerous FEMA staff members, including seasoned emergency management experts, thus enabling DHS to consolidate power over the agency. Her approach reportedly involves significant delays in fund approvals and fostering a toxic work environment marked by conflict with personnel. This management style raises questions about the agency’s capability to handle disaster response adequately.

Moreover, she has been linked to controversial efforts to strip funding from Muslim organizations deemed problematic by the DHS. Initial proposals suggested broadly banning these groups from receiving security grants, driven by concerns over their perceived connections to terrorism. Although a blanket ban was ultimately not implemented, many Muslim groups were still disqualified from receiving federal assistance under her influence.

Evans’ lack of experience in emergency management, coupled with her DHS loyalty, has led to skepticism regarding her capacity to lead FEMA effectively during significant crises. The agency’s future remains uncertain, particularly with ongoing debates about its oversight and operational structure in relation to DHS.

Amid criticisms of delayed funding and response efforts, many within and outside FEMA view Evans as a figurehead, executing the directives of DHS leadership rather than serving as an independent decision-maker for disaster relief efforts. With growing calls from lawmakers for FEMA to operate independently, Evans’ role may be pivotal in shaping future agency dynamics.

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