Historically, President Donald Trump has recognized the significance of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), acknowledging their role in providing career opportunities and better lives for American students.
These institutions are not facing the federal grant cuts that have impacted Ivy League schools.
However, this does not alleviate the concerns of HBCU leaders. While they express gratitude to the Trump administration for its acknowledgment, many remain silent as the administration implements stricter policies impacting support for underrepresented students. Sweep Attack is underway for diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
“HBCUs aren’t in a strong position to counter these attacks openly, but we are all aware of what’s happening,” stated Deron Snyder, a graduate and professor at Howard University. “The only concerns that can be voiced without fear of backlash are those that everyone knows about.”
In April, a Presidential Order was signed by Trump which recognizes and pledges support for HBCUs. While the yearly White House Summit, private sector partnerships, and advisory committees with the education sector are anticipated, assurances of new federal funding remain uncertain.
This order has garnered praise from various black universities and related organizations, such as Howard University and Morgan State University. Harry Williams, president of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, noted that this order should prompt both the foundation and legislators to recommit to HBCU support.
Yet, university leaders have been reticent to comment on other administrative actions relevant to the mission of HBCUs, which were founded to educate formerly enslaved individuals.
The administration’s campaign against DEI has prompted limitations on classroom discussions surrounding racism, resulting in cuts to Federal Research Grants. Some universities are facing the threat of losing federal funds tied to their Diversity Office, with some programs for students of color being terminated.
Marybeth Gusman, a professor at Rutgers University who has researched HBCU history, reflected, “It echoes a time decades ago when black colleges had to argue against school segregation, while also ensuring that government support for their systems was upheld.”
The leader of a black college remarked, “We don’t want HBCUs to be subsumed under DEI, yet I don’t know of any HBCU president who agrees with how Donald Trump is dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives,” she stated.
The Trump administration has reduced federal research grants for certain universities, increasing pressure for them to comply with its agenda. Harvard University notably declined the administration’s requests for policy changes and leadership alterations, leading to significant reductions in the government’s $2.6 billion funding.
In an interview in April, Trump asserted that News Nation black colleges and universities should not be concerned about funding cuts.
Rep. Terry Sewell from Alabama, vice-chair of the House HBCU Caucus, noted that there has long been bipartisan support for these institutions. However, she indicated a heightened vigilance regarding their federal support in light of the administration’s record on programs aimed at minorities.
Democrat Sewell expressed concerns about the administration’s potential efforts to dismantle the education sector.
“We will vehemently oppose this and do everything within our power to ensure HBCUs receive the funding they rightly deserve,” Sewell asserted, noting that the Congressional Black Caucus is closely monitoring Republican funding strategies for programs benefiting the 19 HBCUs through the Department of Agriculture.
Williams from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund remarked on the exceeding expectations of opportunities HBCUs have provided to underrepresented students. Although he appreciated the administration’s support, he challenged its stance on diversity initiatives.
“Efforts and education should be valued, as these institutions play a crucial role in our country,” he stated. “I am heartened to recognize the challenges we currently face regarding the administration’s priorities, reaffirming the significance of what they contribute to the nation.”
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Washington Associated Press journalists Colin Binkley and Matt Brown contributed to this report.
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Source: apnews.com