Since the Supreme Court’s 1996 United States v. Virginia ruling compelled VMI to admit women, the school began to alter its unique adversative system and standards dramatically. Once a revered, unofficial tradition, the Code of a Gentleman was slowly replaced by the more inclusive Code of a Cadet. Diversity, equity, and inclusion policies—implemented after 2021—prescribe the hiring of more female officers, a chief diversity officer, and expanded bias training, contributing to the erosion of the military college.
True reform requires legal and political action to permit and encourage single-sex education and gender-specific training consistent with American founding values.
The Claremont Institute chiefly recommends that the Supreme Court overturn United States v. Virginia in a manner that demonstrates the public can benefit from an arrangement that encourages and equips men and women for (at least somewhat) distinct life trajectories. A victory in a case like this would create space for additional victories that uphold sex-specific goals.
“The lessons of VMI should speak to every American concerned with the strength and character of our republic,” emphasizes Yenor. “True progress lies not in the flattening of differences, but in the flourishing of complementary excellence that honors both men and women in their distinct paths.”
The Claremont Institute urges Congress, policymakers, and the public to reconsider the wisdom of recent mandates and work to restore leadership and virtue in American institutions. VMI’s lessons should inform every citizen concerned with the enduring strength of our republic. Progress must honor distinct paths to excellence for both men and women, fostering complementary strengths rather than flattening differences.
This report is only the beginning. Your support ensures we can take findings like these and turn them into action—pressing for the reforms and legal victories needed to restore institutions like VMI to their true mission.
