Page:Black Lives Matter and the Hatch Act.pdf/6

U.S. Office of Special Counsel Page 6 IV.C

BLM is a “hot-button” issue and both politically and culturally salient. But BLM terminology is issue-based, not a campaign slogan. Therefore, using BLM terminology, without more, is not political activity. BLMGN does not meet any of the criteria for classification as a partisan political group. Therefore, BLMGN is not a partisan political group, and employees are not prohibited from wearing or displaying BLMGN paraphernalia in the workplace.

Please note that this advisory only relates to the Hatch Act and does not address any other laws, rules, or regulations that may apply to expressions of support for, or opposition to, BLM while on duty or in the workplace. If you have questions about any other such laws, rules, or regulations, we recommend that you consult with an agency ethics official.