West Point Rules over Raised Fists Photo

West Point has made a ruling over the viral and controversial photo featuring 16 cadets and their fists raised.

Army investigated whether the woman featured in the photo violated United States Military Academy rules against political expression.

Sixteen black female cadets posed in 19th century military uniforms for a traditional photo in front of the academy's oldest barracks building, which many final year cadets do.

But cadets raised their fists for picture. 16 fists and two swords were raised in the air.

Many on social media said the gesture showed support for the Black Lives Matter movement, which would violate the ban on political expression.

West Point concluded their investigation into the photo on Tuesday. The 16 cadets in the photo will not be punished for their actions.

According to a West Point press release the investigation concluded that the photo was among several taken in the spur-of-the-moment. It was intended to demonstrate “unity” and “pride,” not a political statement about the Black Lives Matter movement.