Rabbi Jonah Pesner Responds to U.S. Coast Guard Decision on Swastika Classification

December 17, 2025 - The following letter was sent to Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, from Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, in response to a policy change that the U.S. Coast Guard would no longer classify the swastika as a hate symbol.

Dear Admiral Lunday,

Less than one month ago, we corresponded about news reports that the USGC was planning to no longer classify the swastika as a hate symbol but rather as one that may cause divisiveness. A similar change was reportedly in the works regarding nooses and Confederate flags. On behalf of the largest and most diverse denomination in American Jewish life, I made clear our strongest objections, noting that such a change would be an “indelible stain on the Coast Guard and a violation of the good that our nation stands for.”

In reply, you wrote, “The swastika has always been and remains a prohibited symbol of hate in the Coast Guard, and any claims to the contrary are absolutely false…It is unfortunate that the men and women of the Coast Guard must take time and focus away from our mission because of these false media reports.” Copies of our correspondence are attached.

Given your firm reply, I am outraged and baffled as to how the policy change has, in fact, occurred on your watch. Was your initial reply an outright falsehood? In the last month, has USGC suddenly discovered an affinity for symbols under which millions were murdered, enslaved, oppressed, or otherwise dehumanized? Is there another justification for this newly adopted policy?

I am eager to hear your explanation of these events. I am more eager for you to reverse this change, immediately. The damage the USGC has done to itself and the United States through this new policy is enormous.

I would appreciate an in-person meeting with you to discuss these issues further and look forward to your swift reply.

Sincerely, 

Rabbi Jonah Pesner (he/him)
Director, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism
Senior Vice President, Union for Reform Judaism