"VA Secretary Rescinds Memo Banning Iconic WWII Kiss Photo"
The Department of Veterans Affairs initially ordered the removal of the iconic World War II photo of a sailor kissing a woman in Times Square due to it being deemed a "non-consensual act," citing a no-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment and assault. However, VA Secretary Denis McDonough intervened, stating that the photograph can remain in VA facilities. The photo, taken on V-J Day in 1945, has sparked debates on consent and historical appropriateness, with different individuals claiming to be the couple in the picture. The decision to remove the photo was met with criticism, and the VA has emphasized its commitment to creating a trauma-informed environment while making its facilities more welcoming to all veterans.
