Programs for Students With Hearing and Vision Loss Harmed by Trumps Anti-Diversity Push
3 minute readPublished: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 2:30 pm
Education Department Cuts Funding for Deafblind Programs, Citing Concerns Over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The U.S. Department of Education has withdrawn funding from programs in eight states that support students with both hearing and vision loss. This decision, which will take effect at the end of the month, impacts programs that provide crucial training and resources for families and educators working with students who are deafblind. These programs, part of a national network, receive just over $1 million annually in federal funds.
The Education Department cited concerns about "divisive concepts" and "fairness" as the reasons for the funding cuts. Letters to local officials indicated that the department found certain initiatives within the grant applications to be in conflict with agency policy. Specifically, the department flagged statements related to addressing inequities, racism, bias, and the marginalization of disability groups. The department also expressed concern over the use of the words "transition" and "privilege" in grant applications.
The affected programs are located in Wisconsin, Oregon, and Washington, as well as a consortium serving Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Vermont. These programs have been in place for over 40 years, and they are considered vital for supporting a particularly vulnerable student population. Nationally, approximately 10,000 children and young adults are deafblind, with over 1,000 in the eight affected states.
The Education Department stated that the decision reflects a shift toward prioritizing merit, fairness, and excellence in education. The department also noted that the funds will be redirected to other programs. However, disability advocates have expressed concern, especially given that the grant applications were submitted under the Biden administration, which required language about diversity and inclusion efforts.
Local officials and advocates are expressing deep concern about the impact of the funding cuts. They emphasize the crucial role these programs play in providing specialized services, resources, and support to students and their families. The loss of funding is expected to have a significant and lasting negative impact on the ability to serve these vulnerable students.
BNN's Perspective: While the Education Department's stated goals of merit and fairness are laudable, the decision to cut funding for these programs raises serious questions. The programs provide essential support for a vulnerable population, and the reasons cited for the cuts seem to be based on a narrow interpretation of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. It is crucial that the department carefully considers the potential harm to these students and their families and reconsiders its decision.
Keywords: Deafblind, Education Department, Funding Cuts, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Special Education, Students, Hearing Loss, Vision Loss, Programs, Wisconsin, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, Merit, Fairness, Education, Disability, Advocates, Vulnerable Students.