What The Potential Termination of DEI Means For HBCUS

(HBCU Collage / American Federation of Teachers)

On January 20, President Donald Trump signed executive orders upholding the promise mentioned throughout his campaign. One of the executive orders included the termination of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs and initiatives in the federal government. 

With the termination of DEI initiatives within federal agencies, public and private companies are choosing to follow suit. This raises concerns for Historically Black Colleges and Universities about funding for school and job opportunities.

“Getting rid of DEI just limits access to new opportunities, especially as a college student – thinking long term, getting internships, new jobs and into a career, I felt that would be a hindrance,” said Angel Mochoge, a freshman political science major.

For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) briefly suspended its 1890 Scholars Program for HBCU Students. The program was created in 1992 and allowed students at qualified land-grant HBCUs to receive full tuition for a degree in agriculture-related fields.

The announcement of the brief suspension caused many to be upset and demand action.

 “The 1890 Scholars Program is a direct response to the USDA’s history of racial discrimination,” said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson in a press release.

The USDA previously addressed their policies that discriminated against Black farmers.During the early 1900s, rules were put in place by the USDA which benefitted white, educated farmers to receive loans and grants through the department.

Suspending the Scholar’s program would eliminate the USDA’s progress to create equal opportunities for Black farmers. 

“Killing it now sends a dangerous message that equity and opportunity no longer matter. I’m calling on the USDA to reverse this disgraceful decision immediately and fully reinstate the program – no delays, no excuses,” Jackson said.

The Trump Administration is investigating colleges in hopes of removing any programs they define as DEI. In doing so, the administration threatens to cut school funding should they keep these programs.

As HBCU students learn about a potential change in DEI initiatives they realize the impact it has on their future careers.

“As an engineer at an HBCU, I came here to expand on my exposure to the engineering field, which is a predominantly white field,” said Jamul MacNear, a graduating computer science major from Howard University. “We’re already not respected or given opportunities, especially at companies like Google or Apple. They really discredit all Black professionals.”