Archive · 30 Dec 2025
US Removes Panels Honoring Black WWII Soldiers in Netherlands
The U.S. government removed two displays in a cemetery in the Netherlands that honored Black soldiers who helped liberate Europe during World War II.
These soldiers faced segregation and discrimination even while serving their country.
The removal happened after President Trump ended programs promoting diversity and inclusion.
Many people in the Netherlands, including families of the soldiers and local residents, are upset about the removal.
They believe the displays are an important part of history and should be put back.
Some people are even trying to find a new place to put the displays so they can still be seen.
The American Battle Monuments Commission removed two displays honoring Black WWII soldiers from a cemetery in Margraten, Netherlands.
The removal followed President Trump's executive orders ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
The displays highlighted the sacrifices of Black soldiers, including one about a soldier who died trying to rescue a comrade.
Dutch officials, families of the soldiers, and local residents have expressed anger and demanded the panels be returned.
The Black Liberators Foundation and local authorities are seeking a permanent location for a memorial to the Black soldiers.
- Who
- U.S. government agency American Battle Monuments Commission
- What
- Removed two displays honoring Black WWII soldiers
- When
- Sometime in the spring, after Trump's DEI policies
- Where
- American Cemetery in Margraten, Netherlands
- Why
- Due to U.S. President Donald Trump's executive orders ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs
- Location
- American Cemetery in Margraten, Netherlands
- Number of Graves
- 8,300 U.S. soldiers
- Removed Panels
- Two displays recognizing Black troops
- Reason for Removal
- U.S. President Donald Trump's DEI policies
- Local Reaction
- Anger from Dutch officials, families, and residents
- Black Soldiers in WWII
- 1 million enlisted, served in segregated units
- Black Liberators Foundation
- Advocates for the return of the panels
- Jefferson Wiggins
- Black soldier who dug graves at Margraten