Fact Check: Has JD Vance’s book ‘Hillbilly Elegy’ been removed from Pentagon schools?

NATIONAL HARBOR, MARYLAND: There have been recent reports circulating that JD Vance’s memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy' could be removed from Pentagon schools, sparking concerns about the influence of “gender ideology” and “discriminatory equity ideology.”

These claims gained traction after the book appeared on a list of materials being reviewed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) over such concerns. But is the memoir truly being pulled from libraries?

Let’s break down the facts. 

Claim: 'Hillbilly Elegy' is getting removed from Pentagon schools

Military news publication Task & Purpose reported that 2016's 'Hillbilly Elegy', which chronicles Vance’s upbringing in the Appalachian region, was among several books being scrutinized for their alignment with the controversial topics of gender and equity ideology.

The book was turned into a movie by Ron Howard in 2020.

The review stems from a broader initiative to ensure that materials in DoDEA schools comply with a series of guidelines, including an executive order from former President Donald Trump aimed at curbing “radical indoctrination” and “gender identities.”

Truth: 'Hillbilly Elegy' remains available for checkout in DoDEA schools

As of now, 'Hillbilly Elegy' has not been banned or permanently removed from libraries in DoDEA schools. In a statement to Newsweek, Will Griffin, director of communications at the Department of Defense Education Activity, clarified that the book remains available for checkout.

"Hillbilly Elegy is available for checkout in DoDEA schools where it is part of the library collection," Griffin stated.

He also emphasized that no books have been permanently removed from libraries, as the review process is still underway.

The review of books is based on compliance with President Trump’s executive order and the guidance from the Department of Defense, according to Griffin.

He explained, “The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is reviewing its current policies and instructional resources in light of recent Executive Orders and Department of Defense guidance. As a DoD entity, DoDEA will fully comply with President’s Executive Orders and guidance from the Secretary of Defense."

Books under review for compliance with Trump's executive order on gender identity and equity

Books under review are being examined to determine if they meet the criteria laid out in the executive order regarding gender identity and equity ideology. The deadline for these reviews was originally set for February 18, but staff members now have until March 3 to finalize their decisions.

In the meantime, while certain books, such as 'Kite Runner', which tackles the rise of the Taliban, and 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley, are also under review, no books have been permanently removed yet.

Libraries are still operating with the books available for checkout until the review process concludes.