September 14, 2025

Hold onto your hats! The U.S. Department of Education just dropped a bombshell by cutting off more than $1 million in federal grants for programs helping children who are both deaf and blind. These kids are some of the most vulnerable learners in America, and now their support is in serious trouble. This news arrived through documents seen by ProPublica, revealing that the Trump administration’s new fight against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) language is behind the decision—not budget cuts. These grants, meant to keep flowing until 2028, are now stopping this month. This shocking halt affects over 1,000 students in states like Wisconsin, Oregon, Washington, and parts of New England. Education Week first brought this news to light. Why such a sudden change? These programs are part of a 40-year-old network that started after the rubella epidemic hit back in the 1960s. While the money isn’t huge, its impact is huge—training teachers, setting up classrooms, and helping families navigate the tough journey of deafblindness. Across the nation, about 10,000 young people live with this condition, needing this vital support. The real twist? Officials didn’t cut the money because the programs failed. Instead, they targeted the words 'equity,' 'racism,' and 'bias' in the grant applications. Oregon’s 2023 plan mentioned fighting inequities and even talked about a local Black Student Excellence center. Wisconsin’s application showed commitment to hiring women, minorities, and disabled veterans—but that raised eyebrows. Even the words 'transition' (meaning moving from childhood to adulthood) and 'privilege' in parents’ notes were flagged as “divisive.” It’s like saying common, caring language is now off-limits! What’s the fallout? Families are heartbroken. A Washington parent told ProPublica, “This program helped teachers change how they teach and put families in touch with each other. Losing it may seem small, but for kids who have nothing else, it is devastating.” In Oregon, a retreat meant to connect 20 families and share vital medical gear has been canceled. A program leader said, “Gathering those families together is a lifeline. The disruption will be harmful for many years to come.” In Wisconsin, about 170 students will lose the help they need. Another grant meant to find special-ed teachers to fight staff shortages was also cut. Officials warned, “Make no mistake, losing these funds will directly impact our ability to serve some of our most vulnerable kids.” Isn’t that ironic? Under President Biden, states had to include equity commitments to gain grants. But now those same words are used as reasons to deny funds. The Education Department says fewer than 35 grants were cut, while over 500 were renewed. Press secretary Savannah Newhouse told ProPublica the goal now is “merit, fairness, and excellence,” not letting taxpayer money fly away “on autopilot.” For advocates helping deafblind children, this isn't just politics; it is a fight for survival. These programs offer communication help, community, and hope for kids who face huge everyday challenges. Yes, $1 million may be a tiny slice in the federal budget, but for these kids, it’s a lifeline. Trump’s war on DEI is now biting the deafblind, those who least can stand up for themselves. And that, dear readers, is a story that hits hard.

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Tags: Deafblind children, Federal funding, U.s. department of education, Dei, Trump administration, Special education,