RimaAnn stated that “concerns regarding the non-consensual” nature of the iconic 1945 photograph kiss warranted its removal from all VA Health Centers
Two Republican lawmakers are demanding the dismissal from service of an employee at Veterans Affairs who was responsible for a memo that was incorrect and subsequently rescinded. The memo instructed that the iconic VJ Day Times Square photograph be removed from VA Health Centers.
Montana Senator Steve Daines and Rep. Ryan Zinke, (R-Mont.) After an X account called “End Wokeness”, published a memo by Assistant Under Secretary for Health Operations RimaAnne, I wrote VA Secretary Denis McDonough.
Nelson asked that the photo showing a Navy Sailor kissing an unidentified female in Times Square on V-J Day in 1945 be removed from VA facilities because it doesn’t promote a “more informed trauma environment which promotes mental security.”
The memo stated that “This action was promoted because the picture, which depicted an act not consented to, conflicted with the VA Handbook policy of zero-tolerance towards sexual harassment and abuse. ”
A poster honoring Alfred Eisenstaedt’s photograph is displayed in Times Square, New York City on August 14, 2015. Ray Williams and Ellie Williams recreated a photograph taken 70 years ago on Victory over Japan Day as part of VJ Day’s 70th anniversary celebrations.
In an official statement on Tuesday, Secretary McDonough overruled that memo.
McDonough said: “I would like to clarify that VA facilities are not prohibited from using this image and we will continue to use them.”
VA spokesperson confirmed the memo was sent but not as intended. The memo has been rescinded.
The lawmakers have fired Nelson for a “politically-motivated memo”.
The author described this memo as “the latest of a series of misguided decisions and woke agendas which dictate management at VA.”
McDonough’s lawmakers pressed him to give details about the process involved in the drafting and approval.
Denis McDonough testifies before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee at an April 26 hearing.
The proposed policy is not only poorly thought out, but it was also considered to be a VHA Priority at a time when there are significant issues with recruitment and retention problems, hiring freezes, and budget restrictions. In the letter, you raise questions about VHA’s organization and some of its top managers.
McDonough responded to the letter by saying, “Rima has dedicated her career to serving Veterans.” “We are fortunate to have her at VA, and she will remain at VA.
As pedestrians watch, a US Sailor passionately kisses a uniformed nurse in Times Square to celebrate the long-awaited victory over Japan. This picture was taken on August 14, 1945. It is a retake of the famous photograph that Eisenstaedt took.
Nelson stated in his memo that “perspectives on historical events and representations have changed” and that recent discussions raised concerns over the nonconsensual smooch, provoking a debate about consent and whether or not it is appropriate for institutions like VHA to celebrate images of this nature today.
Our efforts to promote a culture of inclusion and awareness are consistent with this action.
On August 14, 2015, World War II veterans Ray and Ellie Williams recreated a historic Alfred Eisenstaedt photograph in Times Square.
The legislators asked whether input had been received from the Office of Management and Budget and the White House. They also wanted to know if a draft of the guidelines was sent to the Office of the Executive Secretary to be reviewed and approved.
Karine JEAN-PIERRE, White House Press Secretary said Tuesday that the VA would not ban this photograph.
” I can confirm that we did not sanction the memo and were unaware of it. ”
The lawmakers also requested Nelson’s other memoranda.
The legislators stated that “the VA must reassess its priorities and start putting veterans in the center of its daily operating posture.” “The lawmakers stated that “this can’t happen if leadership structures promote political policies over veteran priorities. The misguided memo’s authors should be held responsible.
