In a vehement response, Human Rights First has roundly condemned the recent executive order by the Trump administration aimed at dissolving the Department of Education. This sweeping action threatens to profoundly impact millions of students and educators, destabilise local economies, and erode vital civil rights protections that safeguard our most vulnerable student populations.
Hanah Stiverson, Associate Director of Democracy Protection at Human Rights First, expressed strong concern, stating, “This unprecedented attack on a core democratic institution is not only unconstitutional, it is an affront to our democratic values and our children’s future. Public education is a cornerstone of a thriving democracy, and the Department of Education is central to ensuring it remains as such.”
The executive order directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to implement measures for the department’s closure, further intensifying the attack on civil rights and public education. President Trump’s ongoing critiques of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as well as educational content addressing the complexities of race, reveal an alarming pattern consistent with authoritarian strategies aimed at dismantling democratic institutions.
Stiverson further reflected on historical precedents, asserting, “Historically, fascist and authoritarian governments first attack civil and human rights and quickly move on to democratic institutions such as public education, free media, and elections. The goal is to take control not only of structures of power but of structures of knowledge as well. An uninformed society is much easier to control.”
Those wishing to engage with Hanah Stiverson or other experts from Human Rights First can do so by contacting [email protected].
Human Rights First condemns the executive order by Trump to eliminate the Department of Education, warning it endangers millions of students and educators. The initiative is viewed as part of a broader assault on civil rights and education. Stiverson emphasizes the historical significance of protecting democratic institutions against authoritarianism, urging the importance of public education.
Human Rights First has firmly denounced the Trump administration’s executive order to eliminate the Department of Education, highlighting its detrimental effects on students, educators, and civil rights. This initiative represents a troubling trend towards authoritarianism, threatening both education and democratic values. The call for dialogue with experts underscores the need for further discussion on safeguarding public education and civil liberties.
Original Source: humanrightsfirst.org
