Will RIDE Lose Federal $$$ Due to its Woke Social Studies Standards?

President Trump’s January 20, 2025 Executive Order – Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing – addresses Critical Race Theory by seeking to dismantle DEI programs that incorporate CRT principles.

Per a 2023 report by the RI Center for Freedom & Prosperity, a significant portion of the social studies standards adopted by the RI Department of Education (RIDE), and to be forced upon all state school districts, was based on controversial and divisive “critical race theory” tenets.

President Trump’s 2025 Executive Orders do address the issue of Critical Race Theory (CRT). Trump has made it a priority to dismantle federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which often include elements related to CRT. This initiative is part of a broader “anti-woke” political movement that seeks to eliminate race-conscious educational practices and policies.

In his executive order, Trump requires government agencies to assess their DEI programs and work towards their elimination. This move aligns with statements made by various conservative leaders who have criticized CRT as being contrary to the ideals espoused by civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. They argue that CRT promotes division based on race rather than unity based on character.

Historically, the use of CRT in educational settings has been contentious, with proponents arguing that it provides necessary frameworks for understanding systemic racism and its impacts on society. In contrast, opponents claim it fosters a divisive narrative that undermines meritocracy and individual character assessment.

The executive order reflects a significant shift in federal policy regarding race-related education and training initiatives. By targeting DEI programs under the guise of promoting equality based on character rather than skin color, Trump’s administration aims to reshape how race is discussed and taught within federal institutions.

While this executive order does not specifically address federal funding of state institutions, or enforcement, past statements by the 47th President suggest that his administration could cut off aid for any public or private entity that receives federal funding and that advances “illegal and immoral” DEI or CRT teaching or training.

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