On the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Google has sparked outrage by choosing to honor a Latina LGBTQ+ activist instead of the Allied soldiers who fought in the historic invasion.
On June 6, 2024, the world commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the largest amphibious invasion in history. As Allied soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy, France, to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation, they faced fierce resistance and paid a heavy price. Yet, on this solemn occasion, tech giant Google chose to honor not the heroes of D-Day but rather a lesbian activist.
Instead of displaying a commemorative "Doodle" honoring the Allied troops, Google's homepage featured an image of Jeanne Córdova, a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and author. Google's tribute to Córdova, who received the Lambda Literary Award on June 6, 1984, celebrated her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, including her work in defeating California Proposition 64, which would have forced HIV-positive individuals into quarantine.
This decision by Google has ignited widespread backlash, particularly among those who believe that honoring D-Day veterans should have taken precedence over recognizing a contemporary LGBTQ+ figure. Social media users expressed their disappointment and outrage, accusing Google of ignoring the significance of the event.
"This is how Google is celebrating the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Some random LGBTQ+ feminist author," commented the conservative account "End Wokeness" on Twitter.
Paul Szypula, a commentator, remarked, "Google actively tries to erode the culture of our society. They hate America so they want to transition it. Whether it’s through censorship or silence. The goal is the same. To replace our culture with wokeness."
The Heritage Foundation's Cody Sargent succinctly expressed his disapproval with a clown face emoji.
Rob Bluey, president and executive editor of The Daily Signal, commented on Sargent's post, "The Elites couldn’t be bothered to honor those who died to protect their freedom."
In response to the criticism, a Google spokesperson clarified that the company did honor D-Day in other ways, including the creation of Google Arts & Culture exhibits. However, the snub of the Allied troops on the "Doodle" remains a sore point for many who believe that the company's priorities are misplaced.
D-Day holds immense historical significance, marking a turning point in World War II and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. It is a day to remember the sacrifices made by the Allied soldiers who risked their lives to secure the future of democracy. While it is important to recognize and appreciate the contributions of LGBTQ+ activists, the anniversary of D-Day should have been reserved for honoring the brave men who fought for the liberation of Europe.
