President Donald Trump has signed executive orders directing U.S. schools to cease teaching what he deems as 'critical race theory' and other materials related to race and sexuality or face the risk of losing federal funding. The orders also include plans to combat antisemitism on college campuses by prosecuting offenders and revoking visas for international students identified as 'Hamas sympathizers.'
The order concerning K-12 schools prohibits the use of federal funds for what it terms as the 'indoctrination' of children, including 'radical gender ideology and critical race theory.' It cites examples such as policies in Virginia and Wisconsin schools that focus on preferred names, pronouns, and gender identity teachings.
The Education Department's Office for Civil Rights can investigate civil rights violations and impose sanctions, including the loss of federal funding. Critics argue that the order unfairly targets teachers and impedes their ability to educate effectively.
Trump has instructed the education secretary to develop a strategy within 90 days to eliminate 'indoctrination' in K-12 education. The move aligns with conservative sentiments against liberal classroom teachings, with several Republican states already implementing laws against critical race theory.
On the other hand, Trump's plan to combat antisemitism aims to utilize federal resources to address offenses on U.S. campuses swiftly. The action includes potential deportation of nonresident aliens violating laws, particularly those involved in pro-Palestinian protests.
The reinstatement of the 1776 Commission to promote 'patriotic education' in schools was also announced. This move reverses a decision by the Biden administration to revoke the commission's guide for teaching history, which was criticized for downplaying America's history of slavery and misrepresenting the civil rights movement.
The actions by the Trump administration have sparked controversy, with civil rights groups and advocates expressing concerns over free speech rights and potential discrimination against protesters.
Overall, these executive orders reflect Trump's efforts to fulfill his campaign promises around education and address perceived ideological biases in school curricula.
