“If you are to serve God with your mind, to study is a grave obligation for you.”
— St. Jose maria Escriva
Education
Since President Trump commenced his second term on Jan. 20, 2025, the US Department of Education has undergone significant policy shifts aimed at redefining federal involvement in education. Recent actions by the department have led to significant shifts in educational policy. The dismantling of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including the removal of resources and the cancellation of related programs, raises concerns about the commitment to fostering inclusive communities within educational institutions. Additionally, the Department’s reinterpretation of Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act to include alleged discrimination against whites marks a notable shift in civil rights enforcement.
Workforce reduction
The administration has initiated substantial workforce reductions within the Department of Education, aligning with broader efforts to diminish federal oversight in education. This restructuring also brings up concerns about the future of programs designed to ensure equal educational opportunities, particularly for marginalized communities.
Executive Order 14190, “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling,” signed Jan. 29, 2025, prohibits K-12 schools from teaching materials deemed anti-American or subversive, including content promoting “gender ideology” or critical race theory. The order also reinstated the 1776 Commission, originally established during President Trump’s first term, to promote “patriotic education.”
Student loan revisions
Changes to federal student loan policies have resulted in increased monthly payments for many borrowers. The administration closed applications for certain income-driven repayment plans and restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, affecting borrowers’ financial planning and access to loan forgiveness.
University compliance
The administration has issued ultimatums to universities, such as Columbia University, demanding significant policy changes under threat of losing federal funding. These demands have sparked debates about academic freedom and institutional autonomy in higher education.
We urge our community to engage in nonviolent resistance strategies inspired by Catholic social movements to challenge these unjust policies and advocate for a more equitable education system.
Did you know?
The PhD Project is an initiative designed to increase diversity within U.S. business schools by encouraging underrepresented groups—particularly African Americans, Hispanic Americans and Native Americans—to pursue academic careers in business. However, the initiative has faced increasing challenges as the political landscape shifts. Recently, some schools participating in the PhD Project, including the University of Michigan, have been scrutinized for race-conscious admissions practices, reflecting a broader national debate on DEI. These challenges underscore the ongoing struggle for social justice within education, especially as federal policies increasingly target programs like the PhD Project.
You may find the IHM Justice, Peace and Sustainability Office’s web materials useful for your committee work, presentations, mission units, ministry and other educational purposes. Be sure to check out our regularly updated online resources HERE.