MD National Guard Drops Frederick Douglass Event

The Washington Post reports:

The Maryland National Guard has declined to participate in a parade to honor the life and legacy of abolitionist and Maryland native Frederick Douglass in his birthplace, citing recent Trump administration guidance. The guard sent organizers of the event a memo on Feb. 7 saying that it is unable to provide a flyover, band, military vehicles or troop presence.

“Since this event is organized as part of a Black History month celebration, the Maryland National Guard cannot support,” says the memo from Maryland National Guard Lt. Col. Meaghan Lazak, which quotes guidance from the Defense Department.

The message prompted organizers to cancel the parade portion of the 207th Birthday Celebration of Frederick Douglass and Civil Rights Heroes Day, said Tarence Bailey Sr., a descendant of Douglass. The event was scheduled for Feb. 22 in Easton, during Black History Month.

Read the full article.

“The MD National Guard must decline events which celebrates individuals based all or in part on immutable characteristics.”

We don’t celebrate Frederick Douglass based on his immutable characteristics. We celebrate his character, courage, and wisdom.https://t.co/L0TaajX41Y

— Bill Kristol (@BillKristol) February 15, 2025