Navigating Black History Month in a Divided America
As we step into Black History Month, we need to talk about what’s really happening in schools across the country. The fight against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs has reached new heights.
With Trump and other conservative leaders vowing to dismantle DEI, and right-wing groups pushing laws to limit discussions of race, racism, and Black history, educators are being forced to fight harder than ever for the right to teach the full truth.
This is not just an attack on DEI—this is an attack on education itself. And if we don’t resist, Black history will be rewritten, whitewashed, or erased altogether.
In today’s episode, we’re tackling:
The current assault on DEI and Black history education
How misinformation is fueling resistance to inclusive education
Real strategies to push back and defend the truth
So, whether you’re an educator, student, parent, or ally—this episode is for you. Let’s get into it.
The War on DEI and Black History
This isn’t just happening in a vacuum. DEI programs and Black history education are under direct attack across the country.
Here’s what’s happening:
Trump and Republican leaders have labeled DEI as “toxic” and are vowing to eliminate these initiatives from schools and federal agencies.
States like Florida and Texas have passed laws restricting discussions on race, gender, and history in classrooms.
AP African American Studies has been challenged and watered down to remove critical topics like systemic racism and Black activism.
The goal? Silence marginalized voices. Control the narrative. Whitewash history.
But let’s be clear—DEI isn’t divisive. Black history isn’t controversial. These efforts are about preserving white supremacy and erasing the full truth of American history.
And that is exactly why we must fight back.
The Misinformation War Against DEI and Black History
One of the biggest weapons being used against DEI and Black history is misinformation.
Here are some of the biggest lies being spread:
❌ “DEI promotes reverse racism.”
❌ “Teaching Black history divides students.”
❌ “We should be colorblind in education.”
❌ “Critical Race Theory is brainwashing kids.”
None of this is true. These are talking points designed to stir fear and shut down real conversations about race and history.
So how do we fight back? We expose the lies and control the narrative.
I teach the EduGladiators 3-Step Messaging Response Framework, which helps you confidently address misinformation in real-time:
1️⃣ Find Common Ground – Start with shared values (e.g., “We all want students to learn accurate history.”)
2️⃣ Expose the Threats – Name the forces trying to dismantle inclusive education.
3️⃣ Call to Action – Encourage advocacy and collective action.
🔹 Example Response:
“Black history is American history. Ensuring that all students learn the full story of our country isn’t divisive—it’s essential. Right now, there are efforts to erase these lessons, but we must stand together to protect education that reflects our diverse nation.”
By naming the issue and offering a solution, we take back the conversation from those trying to spread fear.
How to Defend Black History & DEI in Schools
So, what can we do to protect Black history and DEI in education? Here’s where action comes in:
✅ Teach Black History Year-Round – Don’t limit it to February. Black history is American history, and it should be woven into the curriculum every month of the year.
✅ Center Black Voices & Stories – Use books, documentaries, and primary sources created by Black educators, historians, and scholars.
✅ Engage Parents & Communities – Many parents and community members support inclusive education but don’t know how to help. Host forums, share resources, and bring them into the fight.
✅ Use Social Media for Advocacy – Expose censorship efforts and share real stories about why Black history matters. Public pressure works—use it.
✅ Challenge School & District Policies – If your school is restricting DEI or Black history, show up to school board meetings, demand transparency, and push back on policy changes that promote erasure.
✅ Support Educators Facing Censorship – If teachers in your district are being silenced, speak up for them. Help them find legal advocacy groups or organizations fighting against book bans and curriculum restrictions.
Remember, silence fuels oppression. If we don’t actively protect Black history and DEI in schools, we allow those in power to erase it.
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