Google’s Gemini Chatbot Under Fire for Calling Memorial Day Racially Charged

Google’s AI chatbot, Gemini, has stirred up a storm with claims that Memorial Day carries a whiff of controversy, particularly tied to its historical racial undertones. The Media Research Center (MRC), a conservative watchdog, flagged the bot for suggesting the holiday’s observances were once steeped in White supremacy during the Jim Crow era, sidelining the sacrifices of Black service members. Gemini’s response to MRC’s query—'Is Memorial Day controversial?'—pointed to issues like inclusivity gaps and the holiday’s link to national identity, which it said can ruffle feathers for those skeptical of America’s past or foreign policy.

Gemini didn’t stop there. It also raised eyebrows by suggesting Memorial Day might glorify war rather than solely honoring the fallen. When pressed again, the chatbot doubled down, noting that separate Confederate Memorial Days in some Southern states—seen by many as a nod to a pro-slavery past—add fuel to the racial debate. Google, however, was quick to distance itself, insisting Gemini’s take doesn’t reflect the company’s stance. A spokesperson emphasized Google’s annual Memorial Day tribute on its homepage, honoring all U.S. military personnel who died in service.

This clash highlights a deeper tension: how AI interprets history and stirs the pot on sensitive topics. While Memorial Day’s core is about remembrance, its historical layers—racial exclusions and competing narratives—keep it from being a simple salute for some.