FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 20, 2025
CONTACT:
Graciela González
Director of Communications
ggonzalez@latinopolicyforum.org
312-728-4291
Latino Policy Forum Condemns Trump Order to Dismantle Department of Education
“As with so many of the dramatic actions from this administration that flout our democratic system and norms, today’s action will hurt the most vulnerable communities in our country.”
CHICAGO — Today, President Trump signed an executive order that aims to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education. The President cannot single handedly eliminate a federal department via an executive order as such a move requires an act of Congress.
Latino Policy Forum Vice President for Education Policy and Research, Dr. Rebecca Vonderlack-Navarro, issued the following statement:
“As with so many of the dramatic actions from this administration that flout our democratic system and norms, today’s action will hurt the most vulnerable communities in our country. This time, students who are low-income or living with a disability and English Learner students could stand to lose the most. The U.S. Department of Education has a critical role in providing oversight for our public schools. Any disruption to the education of our students could have a profoundly harmful impact on their futures.
“It is times like these that I am thankful for the leadership of states like Illinois that value and prioritize public education and supporting the needs of our most vulnerable students. This is also when it matters most for our state to double down on its commitment to strengthening our public education system. We look forward to working alongside the Governor’s office, the Illinois General Assembly, and our partners to pass a budget that adequately supports every student in our state. Our young people, who are the future of our communities, are relying on us to do so.
“The Latino Policy Forum is committed to supporting efforts that protect and uplift access to equitable education opportunities for Latinos and all public school students. We will be conducting a thorough analysis to understand the potential impact this order, if it is enacted, would have on Latino students in Illinois, including English Learners.”
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About the Latino Policy Forum
The Latino Policy Forum is the only organization in the Chicago area that facilitates the involvement of Latinos at all levels of public decision-making. The Forum conducts analysis to inform, influence and lead. Its goals are to improve education outcomes, advocate for affordable housing, promote just immigration policies, and engage diverse sectors of the community, with an understanding that advancing Latinos advances a shared future. For more information, visit www.latinopolicyforum.org.