Category: Discrimination: Disabilities

Trump Mandates Schools Certify Against DEI for Federal Funds

The Trump administration has instituted a new requirement for K-12 schools to certify compliance with federal civil rights laws as a condition for receiving federal funding. This mandate represents a blatant move to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in educational institutions. Schools have been given just 10 days to sign and return a certification notice sent by the Education Department, highlighting the urgency and severity of this directive.

The administration’s acting assistant secretary for civil rights, Craig Trainor, claims that many educational institutions have disregarded their legal responsibilities by employing DEI programs in a manner that allegedly discriminates against certain groups. He stated, “Federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right,” framing this new policy as a necessary oversight to protect against what the administration describes as illegal favoritism.

This certification process entails an acknowledgment from school and state leaders that their federal support hinges on adherence to specific legal guidelines outlined by the administration. According to the notification, any DEI practices that could favor one race over another violate federal law and could jeopardize critical funding. Schools that do not comply risk losing their federal financial assistance, including Title I funding, which is crucial for low-income areas, affecting billions in educational support.

Moreover, the Education Department has explicitly threatened legal repercussions for noncompliance, emphasizing that institutions can be held liable under the False Claims Act. This aggressive stance follows a memo issued earlier that declared any school policies differentiating treatment based on race as illegal. The administration continues to maintain that such policies unfairly disadvantage white and Asian American students.

This latest initiative by the Trump administration to undermine DEI policies is part of a broader Republican agenda aimed at dismantling diversity initiatives across various sectors. By wielding federal funding as leverage, the administration seeks to impose its discriminatory beliefs on K-12 education, fundamentally reshaping the American educational landscape in an anti-diversity direction.

(h/t: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/schools-trump-washington-education-department-republican-b2726971.html)

University of Michigan Closes DEI Office Amid Trump Pressure

The University of Michigan, known for its commitment to progressive values, is shutting down its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) following pressure from the Trump administration. This decision reflects the broader trend of Republican policies undermining diversity initiatives across educational institutions. University President Santa Ono announced that this closure comes in response to recent executive orders targeting DEI programs nationwide, particularly those promoted under the Trump regime.

In a statement, the university indicated that services previously provided by the ODEI will be redistributed to other offices dedicated to student access and opportunity. The DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan and associated programming will also be discontinued. This retreat from the university’s previous support for diversity is alarming to faculty and advocates, who see it as a compliance with federal pressures aimed at enforcing a culture of white supremacy.

Rebekah Modrak, chair of the Faculty Senate, criticized the decision in an email, asserting that the federal government is working to erode the foundations of higher education by fostering a more homogeneous and inequitable environment. Her comments highlight the potential dangers of this shift, noting that similar initiatives in other states like Texas and Ohio have led to censorship and diminished academic freedom.

Despite the announced changes, there are efforts to maintain some degree of diversity programming, including mental health support and programs for historically underrepresented students. However, the overall trend of scaling back DEI initiatives raises concerns about the university’s commitment to fostering a truly inclusive campus. Critics warn that the administration’s decisions will ultimately diminish the educational experience and alter how equitable opportunities are administered.

U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib sharply condemned the decision, stating that University of Michigan students deserve an administration that defends their rights against Trump’s regressive attacks on academic integrity and freedoms. The move to dissolve DEI efforts represents a significant setback not only for the University of Michigan but also for higher education institutions navigating Trump’s divisive policies.

(h/t: https://www.freep.com/story/news/education/2025/03/27/university-michigan-dei-office-closing/82690676007/)

DOJ Launches Investigation into LASD 2nd Amendment Violations

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated an investigation into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) over allegations that it is infringing upon citizens’ Second Amendment rights through excessive fees and lengthy wait times for concealed carry permits. This federal inquiry is part of a larger review addressing “restrictive firearms-related laws” that have emerged in California and other states, following complaints of an 18-month delay for permit approval from LASD.

Attorney General Pam Bondi has expressed that the DOJ will not tolerate any state or local violations of the Second Amendment. In her statement, she emphasized that the Second Amendment is a fundamental right and that the department aims to enforce it vigorously. This action aligns with the Trump administration’s recent directives to scrutinize gun rights policies in various jurisdictions, asserting a commitment to upholding Second Amendment rights.

Despite LASD’s assertion that staffing shortages and a backlog of applications are responsible for the extended wait times, critics contend that the permitting process is excessively slow and costly. Legal experts note that the investigation into LASD marks a significant shift in the Republican approach, who previously opposed similar federal examinations of local law enforcement practices, especially in the context of systemic misconduct.

Chuck Michel, president of the California Rifle and Pistol Association, lauded the DOJ’s involvement, attributing it to a lawsuit addressing the constitutionality of the LASD’s permitting process. As the investigation unfolds, there are indications that its scope may broaden to include other California jurisdictions experiencing similar challenges with permitting systems, thus further highlighting the national debate surrounding gun rights.

Legal scholars have commented on the potential implications of the DOJ’s findings, noting that while it is essential for the department to demonstrate any misconduct in the permit issuance process, substantiating claims of intentional delays may be complex. The investigation underscores a continuing partisan divide, examining how the Trump administration’s lens frames local governance and citizen rights, particularly in states like California that challenge federal directives.

(h/t: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-03-27/trump-doj-los-angeles-sheriffs-department-gun-rights)

Elon Musk’s Use of Power to Silence Critics Undermines Accountability and Democracy

Elon Musk has leveraged his position and social media influence to target critics, notably undermining individuals like Dylan Hedtler-Gaudette, a blind director at the Project on Government Oversight. This episode, marked by Musk’s mocking retweet of an attack on Hedtler-Gaudette’s testimony, resulted in a flood of harassment from his followers, showcasing Musk’s troubling disregard for accountability and respect in discourse. Hedtler-Gaudette described the experience as surreal, highlighting Musk’s juvenile approach to dissent.

Musk’s actions illustrate a broader pattern of using his platform to stifle criticism of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a government body he leads. For instance, he has publicly called for the firing of federal employees who question his agenda, contributing to an atmosphere where dissent is actively silenced. This creates a chilling effect on free speech, as those employed by the government may fear retaliation for voicing their concerns.

The misrepresentation of facts by both Musk and former President Donald Trump concerning alleged government waste and fraud serves as an example of misinformation aimed at justifying their agendas. Trump’s and Musk’s repeated claims lack concrete evidence and cater to a narrative that prioritizes their interests over factual accountability, undermining public trust in government efficiency.

The ramifications of Musk’s significant social media reach extend beyond online harassment. His ability to mix his governmental role with social media promotion allows him to mobilize attacks on individuals, effectively inciting followers to engage in cyberbullying and harassment campaigns. Digital rights experts emphasize that this imbalance in power raises serious concerns about the safety of dissenters in political discourse.

As the intertwining of Musk’s governmental position and social media influence continues, the implications for American democracy are severe. The normalization of such behavior blurs the lines of presidential accountability and the ethical governance of a public official. Musk’s conduct fosters an environment where intimidation tactics are employed to undermine transparency and accountability in government, a tactic emblematic of the troubling fascistic tendencies present in the Trump administration and its allies.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2025/02/17/elon-musk-x-target-critics-federal-employees/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHQ2JaiNhhuejlr3SrNn3uWOsax5difYFcUcoYMMHtTZXhTr8jM6fA081oA_aem_S0oRVZIzKfo41jTKPbBTnw)

PBS Closes DEI Office Under Trump Pressure Threatening Media Diversity

PBS has shut down its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) office in direct response to a recent executive order from Donald Trump. This closure affects staff members who worked in the DEI unit, previously led by Cecilia Loving. In a statement, PBS vowed to continue reflecting America’s diversity in its workforce despite this setback.

This decision follows a series of Trump’s executive orders designed to dismantle DEI programs across both federal entities and private organizations. PBS is currently under scrutiny from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is investigating potential violations regarding sponsorship disclosures. This inquiry has been instigated by Trump-appointed FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who has repeatedly targeted public broadcasters like PBS and NPR.

Before this closure, PBS had been actively expanding its DEI initiatives, having established a dedicated DEI office in 2022. Their recent reports indicated a record high of 44 percent BIPOC representation in their workforce. However, with the Trump administration’s aggressive stance against DEI efforts, PBS now faces significant challenges in continuing these programs.

The closure of the DEI office represents a worrying trend of undermining efforts to foster diversity and equality in public institutions, echoing broader Republican agendas aimed at eroding inclusive practices. As public broadcasting faces external pressures, the rollback of such initiatives serves to reinforce the exclusionary tactics of Trump and his allies, who are determined to reshape America’s media landscape.

This move not only affects the staff involved but also threatens the integrity of public broadcasting as a space for diversity in representation and perspective. Trump’s regime continues to implement authoritarian tactics aimed at stifling dissent and manipulating media narratives, reminiscent of the strategies employed by populist leaders around the world.

Trump’s Federal Funding Freeze Threatens Disabled Americans, Transgender Youth, and Refugees

President Donald Trump’s recent actions reveal a concerning trend that affects vulnerable populations across America, hinging on an alarming federal funding freeze aimed at crippling essential services for disabled Americans, transgender youth, and refugees. A sweeping memo from the Office of Management and Budget initiated a pause on trillions in federal grants and loans, causing immediate repercussions. Nonprofits and healthcare organizations reported delays in receiving vital funding, which ultimately hinders their ability to assist those in need.

For instance, a West Virginia nonprofit that facilitates employment for people with disabilities was unable to support a new employee due to delayed federal funds. Although an immediate reversal was initiated, many organizations remain in limbo regarding access to funds, with even federal judges unable to fully resolve the situation. This disruption particularly hurt the Appalachian Center for Independent Living, which had to lay off critical staff members, jeopardizing their support for individuals in need of services.

Furthermore, Trump’s executive order targeting federal support for gender-affirming care poses a severe threat to the health and well-being of transgender youth. Hospitals in major U.S. cities have temporarily suspended medical treatments, creating a healthcare crisis in regions previously regarded as safe havens for such care. This order not only restricts access to necessary medical interventions but also threatens legal repercussions for caregivers and healthcare providers, intensifying an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.

As if that isn’t troubling enough, Trump’s administration has instigated a funding freeze that impacts refugee resettlement efforts, leaving nearly 6,000 refugees in a precarious state. The halt on foreign aid severely limits organizations like Global Refuge, which relies on federal funds to assist new arrivals in navigating life in the U.S. The fear of future funding cuts plagues these nonprofits, with many expressing that such actions could result in dire consequences for marginalized communities reliant on their support.

The ongoing fallout from Trump’s unprecedented maneuvers represents a targeted assault on programs that uphold the dignity and rights of vulnerable citizens. With alarming guidance from figures like Elon Musk advocating for slashed federal spending, the consequences of these policies threaten to erode fundamental aspects of American democracy and humanitarian support. Such actions exemplify a racist and authoritarian agenda, fostering an environment that endangers lives and livelihoods.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/06/politics/nonprofits-funding-trump-freeze/index.html)

Trump’s Faulty Claims on FAA Diversity Policies Mislead Public After Plane Crash

Former President Donald Trump’s recent claims linking air traffic control diversity programs to a tragic plane crash are not just misleading but also factually inaccurate. The diversity hiring program that Trump criticized was actually initiated during his own presidency, specifically in 2019. This revelation comes from fact-checking by The Washington Post, which clarified that Trump’s narrative is an attempt to scapegoat policies he put in place.

In a press conference aimed at exploiting the emotional aftermath of a plane crash, Trump suggested various medical conditions that should disqualify individuals from being air traffic controllers—claims that have been met with backlash due to their unfounded nature. These remarks dismiss the capabilities of countless individuals who can thrive in such roles despite having disabilities. Trump’s definition of disqualification starkly contrasts with the inclusive hiring practices that were established for the FAA during his own administration and have been consistent since.

Trump also falsely claimed he rolled back diversity initiatives from the Obama administration regarding air traffic control hiring. In reality, the programs were left intact throughout Trump’s term and were the subject of legal challenges from conservative groups. His assertion that he altered these standards for the better lacks any substantial evidence; instead, it highlights the disingenuous and corrupt tactics characteristic of Republican rhetoric.

This is not the first instance of Trump deflecting responsibility, as he has previously made baseless claims regarding various issues, including public health decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic and national security purges. His pattern of blaming policies initiated by his opponents or his administration itself serves to distract from his own failures and maintain his grip on the right-wing narrative.

Furthermore, influential figures like Elon Musk have echoed Trump’s sentiments, misleading the public about the qualifications of personnel in regulatory agencies while ignoring the fact that Trump’s administration laid the groundwork for the current situation. This aligns with a broader Republican agenda that seeks to undermine diversity initiatives while appealing to a base that thrives on negative framing of progress, ultimately undermining fairness and equality in the workforce and advancing corporate interests over public safety.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/news/faa-diversity-program-trump-blames-for-air-crash-was-started-in-first-trump-administration-reveals-the-washington-post/)

Musk Aligns with Trump, Threatening GOP Moderates and Public Welfare

Elon Musk is openly aligning himself with Donald Trump, threatening to punish Republican lawmakers who do not support Trump’s agenda. Recently, Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy met with GOP lawmakers to discuss the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to cut essential federal programs, prioritizing corporate interests over the needs of everyday Americans. This blatant disregard for public welfare underscores the alarming trend of American oligarchy prioritizing the wealthy elite at the expense of vulnerable populations.

During their Capitol Hill visit, Musk and Ramaswamy highlighted the potential consequences for Republican members of Congress who resist their plans. Musk’s suggestion of a ‘naughty and nice list’ denotes a dangerous shift towards authoritarian tactics within the GOP, potentially coercing lawmakers into compliance with Trump’s extreme policies. This move not only threatens the integrity of the Republican Party but also risks exacerbating the already divisive political climate.

Moreover, Musk’s financial contributions to pro-Trump PACs, including a significant sum to America PAC, reveal his commitment to mobilizing resources for furthering Trump’s agenda. These actions align Musk with a faction of the GOP that embraces fascist tactics, as they seek to eliminate dissenting voices within their ranks. The repercussions of this alliance could lead to a more radicalized Republican Party that prioritizes allegiance to Trump over the interests of constituents.

Critics of Trump’s administration are right to be concerned about Musk’s growing influence in politics. By leveraging his wealth and platforms, Musk could push the Republican Party further right, creating an environment where moderate stances are no longer tenable. The implications of this shift could undermine democratic principles and lead to the erosion of essential services that many Americans rely on.

In summary, Elon Musk’s increasing involvement in the political sphere, particularly in support of Trump’s agenda, signals a worrying trend of oligarchic control in American politics. The collaboration between wealthy elites and the GOP threatens to dismantle the foundations of democracy, prioritizing corporate interests over the well-being of the public and further entrenching a system that benefits the few at the expense of the many.

(h/t: https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-politics-trump-7e26c829af224a1f9d67c27cea085e68?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=share)

Trump: I never called Sessions ‘mentally retarded’

President Donald Trump denied late Tuesday night that he called Jeff Sessions “mentally retarded” and made fun of his Southern heritage, his latest push back to Bob Woodward’s upcoming book on the Trump White House.

“The already discredited Woodward book, so many lies and phony sources, has me calling Jeff Sessions “mentally retarded” and “a dumb southerner,” the president wrote on Twitter. “I said NEITHER, never used those terms on anyone, including Jeff, and being a southerner is a GREAT thing. He made this up to divide!”

Trump and the White House have already issued a litany of criticisms against Woodward’s latest tome, “Fear.” Excerpts indicate the president is depicted as increasingly erratic and his staff allegedly is forced to resort to the type of tactics sometimes used to control children — like stealing problematic papers off of his desk — to try to thwart him.

Known for his Pulitzer-Prize winning reporting on the Watergate scandal, Woodward has remained adamant that the eyebrow-raising anecdotes in his book are accurate. Even so, Trump, White House chief of staff John Kelly and Defense Secretary James Mattis have issued statements denying portions of Woodward’s reporting.

In the reported excerpt in question, Trump allegedly told then-White House staff secretary Rob Porter that Sessions was “mentally retarded” and was a “dumb Southerner.”

Trump’s tweet Tuesday night was a rare bit of defense for his beleaguered attorney general, who has weathered intense criticism from Trump. This past weekend, the president vented about the Justice Department’s prosecution of two GOP congressmen, Chris Collins and Duncan Hunter, and how the timing of the announcement of those charges has prevented the GOP from finding others to run in their place.

[Politico]

Reality

Responding to legendary journalist Bob Woodward’s book that he called Jeff Sessions a “retard,” Donald Trump tweeted he absolutely never called Sessions or anyone else a “retard” in his entire life.

Here is audio of Donald Trump calling someone a “retard” at the 19 minute mark.

Here is another audio of Donald Trump calling a reporter “retarded”.

Corey Lewandowski Mocks Disabled Migrant Girl Who Was Separated From Parents: ‘Womp Womp’

Former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski mocked a story about a migrant child with down syndrome who was taken from her mother by mimicking sad trombone noises and saying “womp womp.”

Democratic strategist Zac Petkanas, who was debating Lewandowski on the issue of undocumented migrant families being split apart by border officials, fiercely responded: “How dare you. How absolutely dare you, sir.”

When Lewandowski responded by falsely claiming the policy existed under the Obama administration, Petkanas fact checked him.

“This policy was not done during the administration,” the strategist said. “You are now lying about this policy, in addition to just saying, ‘womp, womp.’”

Petkanas continued:

“The difference now is they are accompanied minors, but the Trump Administration is forcibly making them unaccompanied minors when they take them from their parents and put them in cages. And we have members of the Trump team who are going wah wah when you learn about the stories — the horror that is going on down at the border.”

Lewandowski replied by arguing that “coming across the border illegally is a crime,” and criminals get separated from their children when they go to jail, therefore migrant kids should be taken from their parents too.

[Mediaite]

1 2