FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS STATEMENT
February 17, 2025CONTACT
apr@fenton.com
The Trump administration’s demand that public K-12 schools and colleges cut DEI programs is yet another example of how anti-DEI politicians and activists are working to restore barriers to the American Dream
February 17, 2025 –– Dr. Andrea Abrams, executive director of the Defending American Values Coalition, a member of the American Pride Rises Network, issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration threatening to cut off federal funding to public schools that don’t comply with their cynical demand to cut diversity, equity and inclusion programs and initiatives:
“The Trump administration’s attack on our nation’s public K-12 schools and colleges is a blatant attempt to restore barriers to the American Dream for millions, and ensure that power and privilege remain concentrated in the hands of a select few.
“For centuries, the fundamental American values of diversity, equity and inclusion have guaranteed that all people in our nation, no matter their background or zip code, have access to quality education. From the Morrill Land-Grant Acts, which led to the creation of many of our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities, to Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act that provided federal funding to schools with high percentages of low-income students – DEI has guaranteed that all communities in our nation have the freedom and opportunity to achieve success.
“For the students who were shut out of educational opportunities throughout our nation’s history, such as low-income students, those with learning disabilities, students of color, and more, DEI has widened pathways to success and removed barriers so that every person’s merit can speak for itself.
“This cynical and chaotic decision is yet another example of the Trump administration’s desire to undermine the future of our children, working families and nation to peddle extremist ideologies that are unpopular with the majority of Americans.”
About American Pride Rises:
American Pride Rises (APR) is an initiative committed to protecting pathways to the American Dream by fighting for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive America for all.