NAACP Deplores Department of Education Executive Order Signed by Trump, Set to Dismantle Federal Education Programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 20, 2025 

Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org

WASHINGTON - Today, Donald Trump signed an executive order directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon tobegin the process of dismantling the Department of Education. The move, which requires approval from Congress, comes after nearly 1,300 staff members were laid off from the department in previous weeks.

NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson, released the following statement in reaction:

"Let's be clear — this executive order is unconstitutional, but to Donald Trump, the rule of law doesn't seem to matter. Only Congress can establish or abolish an executive agency. Trump is not just seeking to shut down an agency, he is deliberately dismantling the basic functions of our democracy, one piece at a time. 

This is a dark day for the millions of American children who depend on federal funding for a quality education, including those in poor and rural communities with parents who voted for Trump. Don't be fooled, Trump doesn't have your back, he only cares about the billionaire class who will profit from the privatization of essential services, including education. As recent polls indicate, Trump's actions are far out of line with the American people."

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.