Preserve civil rights leaders' ship names, promote inclusion

The decision to rename Navy ships that honor civil rights leaders and advocates for social justice reflects disturbing white supremacist values. This unjustified move serves to erase the legacies of pioneers like Harvey Milk, Thurgood Marshall, Cesar Chavez, and others who fought tirelessly for equality and human rights. It dishonors their sacrifices and undermines the principles of inclusivity that our military should uphold. Moreover, renaming these vessels is a wasteful expenditure of taxpayer funds at a time when resources could be better allocated to support our service members and fortify national defense. According to a 2012 report by the Congressional Research Service, the average cost of renaming a Navy ship can range from $600,000 to over $3 million, depending on the size of the vessel and the extent of the renaming process. This expense is not only financially irresponsible but also sends a divisive message that contradicts American values of diversity and unity. I urge you to oppose this misguided decision and instead prioritize policies that foster an inclusive military culture, honor the contributions of all Americans, and allocate resources responsibly to strengthen our national security. Our military's strength lies in its diversity and unwavering commitment to defending the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.