Education Secretary's Ignorance of Tulsa Race Massacre Sparks National Debate

Linda McMahon's Comments on Tulsa Race Massacre Spark Outrage Washington D.C. - A recent congressional hearing saw U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon facing sharp questioning from Rep. Summer Lee regarding the Trump administration's stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in schools. The exchange focused on whether lesson plans about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre would violate the administration's executive order. Secretary McMahon's responses, which repeatedly expressed a need to 'look into it more,' have ignited controversy. "Do you know what the Tulsa Race Massacre is?" asked Rep. Lee. McMahon replied, "I'd like to look into it more and get back to you on it." This response, along with similar evasiveness regarding Ruby Bridges' book, 'Through My Eyes,' has drawn heavy criticism. Rep. Lee emphasized the implications of removing DEI from schools, stating, "When [you] call for removing of equity and inclusion and diversity and accessibility from schools in favor of ‘traditional American values,’ it’s indistinguishable from … post-Civil War South advocating to rewrite history with the Lost Cause narrative [and] to censor truths about slavery." The incident highlights a broader debate about historical education and the role of DEI in schools. The Secretary's lack of familiarity with such a significant historical event raises questions about the administration's approach to education policy. The controversy continues to unfold, sparking discussions about the importance of accurate historical representation in schools.