‘No Beards’: Why Pete Hegseth’s Remarks Sparked Backlash from Sikhs

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has faced criticism from the Sikh Coalition over recent remarks on military grooming standards, which restrict beards, long hair and other forms of personal expression. Speaking at Quantico, Virginia, Hegseth said: “No more beards, long hair, superficial individual expression,” adding, “If you want a beard, you can join special forces, if not, then shave,” the Sikh Coalition reported. Addressing nearly 800 generals, admirals and senior enlisted leaders, Hegseth, a former Army National Guard officer, also mocked servicemembers with facial hair, referring to them as “beardo-s” and “fat generals.” The new rules raise concerns for Sikhs, Orthodox Jews and Muslims, who have been permitted to maintain facial hair for religious reasons. Critics say the changes force personnel to choose between their faith and military service. The Sikh Coalition said the military is on “high alert” and emphasised that Sikhs have repeatedly demonstrated that adhering to their faith, such as wearing turbans or keeping uncut hair, does not prevent them from being effective, honourable or capable service members.Also Read: Why Has Pete Hegseth Suddenly Fired Navy Chief of Staff Jon Harrison? Hours after Hegseth’s speech, the Pentagon issued a memo titled “Grooming Standards for Facial Hair,” instructing all military branches to revert to rules in place before 2010 and stating that “facial hair waivers are generally not authorised.” The memo specifies that all personnel must maintain a clean shave, sideburns must be above the ear opening, and moustaches are authorised but must be neatly trimmed. Beards, goatees and other facial hair are prohibited unless specifically authorised. All branches are required to implement the changes within 60 days, with full enforcement scheduled for 90 days. “Applicants unable to comply will be deferred from accession until standards are met,” the memo added. Mikey Weinstein, founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF), described the new grooming rules as a “comprehensive, universal attack” that disproportionately affects individuals who are not straight, white, Christian and male, local media reported.