Pentagon tightens controls over Stars and Stripes after calling it woke

The Defense Department has started imposing greater control over Stars and Stripes, a military newspaper, following accusations of focusing on “woke distractions.” Pentagon announced modernization changes in a memo dated March 9, effective immediately, according to NPR. Stars and Stripes must adhere to Defense Department’s new policies, including content consistency with military justice terms. Stars and Stripes editor expressed concerns about legal implications for staff if stories are not approved by the Defense Department.

The Pentagon aims to refocus Stars and Stripes on its original mission as an independent news source for service members stationed overseas. This move comes after public criticism of the newspaper weeks prior. Stars and Stripes has a long history serving the U.S. military independently, but recent government actions pose challenges to its journalistic freedom.

Amid concerns over press freedoms, many media organizations have questioned the Pentagon’s memo affecting Stars and Stripes’ coverage of war zones and other major events. The limitations on wire services and other content types will impact the newspaper’s ability to provide diverse news to military personnel. Stars and Stripes’ future operations are uncertain as it navigates these new restrictions.