The Trump administration has been making headlines for promises to cut federal funding for schools teaching CRT or “transgender insanity.”
CRT, or critical race theory, is an academic framework examining systemic racism and its impact on society. Transgender ‘insanity’ refers to the teaching of concepts surrounding gender identity and inclusive language.
President Trump recently tweeted, “Department of Education is looking at this. If so, they will not be funded!”
The statement has put schools around the country on edge, as many have begun incorporating CRT and transgender education into their curriculum.
While some have applauded the move, others are concerned about the impact it could have on education.
Advocates for CRT argue that understanding systemic racism is essential to creating a more equitable society, while those advocating for transgender education argue that it can help create safe and inclusive spaces for all students, including transgender and non-binary students.
Critics, however, argue that CRT promotes discrimination towards white people and that transgender education goes against biological science.
In the wake of the statement, several states, including Texas and Florida, have taken action to ban or restrict CRT and transgender education in their schools.
The move by the Trump administration is not the first attempt to restrict CRT and transgender education. Earlier this year, the Department of Health and Human Services proposed a rule allowing federally funded homeless shelters to turn away transgender people, sparking outrage and legal action.
The future of CRT and transgender education remains uncertain. While federal funding is an essential source of support for many schools, educators may continue to incorporate these concepts into their curriculum on a state or local level.
For those who support the move by the Trump administration, a victory in November’s presidential election could lead to long-term changes. However, those who oppose the move may have to fight for their beliefs through grassroots organizing and legal action.
