Trump’s demand for the repeal of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Act raises concerns in classrooms, as teachers and students worry about their safety, while questions emerge about the boundaries of education.
Since the early 1970’s DEI- formerly including or referenced as equal opportunity and affirmative action- have been essential for the safe integration and acceptance of marginalized groups in society.
This act has been vital for promoting inclusive environments, where all individuals feel valued and respected, while being granted equitable opportunities. Yet despite its attempts to establish a safe space for those of different race, gender, religion, social class, age, and disabilities, these initiatives have been heavily criticized by groups claiming that DEI promotes discrimination by disadvantaging other groups-mainly white, straight, male, Christians.
A main concern and cause of political animosity revolves around DEI (Diversity Equity and Inclusion) and its role in primary and secondary education. Some argue that topics surrounding gender and sexual orientation promote the conversion of children into the LGBTQ community. Others believe that discussing racial inequity is teaching hate against and disadvantaging white individuals. Most of these individuals believe that topics involving diversity are extremist left-wing tactics.
However, DEI initiatives have been essential in legislation involving DASA (Dignity for All Students ACT). This piece of legislation attempts to protect against harassment, abuse, and violence that may threaten students while at school based on their external or internal identities. With demand for the removal of DEI, DASA is now also at risk. Despite differing political views, we all want schools to be safe environments, free from potential fear, rejection, and humiliation.
Without a doubt, the repeal of DEI will have major impacts on students. Neurodivergent programs supported by DEI may be stripped, leaving less opportunity for academic support and extended time. Schools will become less welcoming for marginalized groups, and those struggling with economic disparities may find it harder to gain the help and resources needed to close the education gap. This repeal will also have a major impact on teachers.
The limit on topics involving race and gender has already begun in multiple states, with over 16,000 books banned in public schools across the U.S. since 2021. This means many students will be heavily underrepresented in schools, meaning their voices, ideas, and experiences will be undermined and even oppressed. These children will grow up in a world which values the white straight man’s experiences more than their own, and they will grow up feeling different and excluded.
Trump has recently demanded that schools halt conversations on diversity altogether and has even gone as far as to threaten elementary and high schools with lower funding if they engage in topics related to race and sexuality. This extremist attitude, that was once deemed impossible and unethical, is now threatening the rights of teachers and students, while outwardly infringing upon freedom of speech.
Luckily, I was born at a time when this freedom of speech still remained. As a young child, I attended a very small Montessori school run predominantly by immigrants. My English teacher was from Lebanon, my math teacher was from Turkey, and my dance teacher was from Italy. I happened to also come from a family of Romanian Jewish immigrants. These individuals, who came from vastly different cultures and backgrounds, were not dangerous, nor were they trying to impose political agendas through their informative and culturally diverse curriculum. Instead, they aimed to enrich our understanding of the world. To help us connect and value different backgrounds, our teachers would invite dancers and speakers of different nationalities, and we would frequently perform talent shows in different languages. In 4th grade, I told my teacher I wanted to learn a Romanian song to impress my mother. A few months later, my entire class sang in Romanian for the school talent show. The open acceptance and appreciation that my classmates and teachers showed me allowed me to be proud of my heritage. This feeling of pride and acceptance should be granted to all children.
Yet today this widespread acceptance no longer stands, with parents and officials arguing over access to books and freedom of speech. In November of 2024, issues were raised among my school district relating to an elementary level book including a trans character. Some parents claimed that this book could have an impact on the way children viewed themselves, thus possibly promoting and glorifying transitioning. This fear does not stem from a rational standpoint, as children can read books that they don’t directly relate to, without it changing who they are. This control on books stems from a sense of fear, confusion, ignorance, and hate of specific groups.
By removing DEI, we are alienating different groups of people. DEI must stay intact and be respected in schools to help maintain the safety and rights of marginalized groups.
