The Veterans of Foreign Wars has decided to focus on culture war issues and unnecessary quarrels.
In June, the organization celebrated what it labeled the left-wing “holy of holies”: LGBTQIA+ month. It paid tribute to those who fall under the ever-expanding umbrella of sexual identities and genders.
Framed as a gesture of inclusivity, the decision placed the VFW squarely on the opposing side of the demographic it has served for more than 125 years.
Having the right to say something does not automatically make that expression a sound strategic choice.
With much of my career centered in reputation management and communications strategy, I have learned the painful lesson that the quickest way to lose influence is by picking unnecessary fights with allies.
If the fight isn’t in defense of your core mission or identity, why go there and risk losing your base?
