The U.S. Department of Education has now reportedly allocated nearly $101 million in grants aimed at training K-12 social workers, but a recent report reveals that these funds are being directed toward programs promoting leftist ideologies at various universities.
According to a study by Parents Defending Education, a majority of the social work programs receiving federal funding have integrated “social justice” concepts into their curricula since 2021.
The report highlights that over $100 million has been distributed to 25 universities through grants intended for mental health programs, but in practice, these funds have supported initiatives centered on critical race theory, anti-racism, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
The Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant Program has facilitated these grants, which were meant to address mental health challenges but have ultimately backed programs that align with social justice activism.
For instance, Indiana University’s School of Social Work received a $5.7 million grant and offered courses that focus on critical race theory and social justice, while Portland State University got over $1.1 million to increase its social work program in alignment with DEI principles.
Other institutions such as the University of New Hampshire and the University at Buffalo have similarly received substantial federal funding while embedding these ideological frameworks into their educational offerings.
Critics, including Erika Sanzi from Parents Defending Education, argue that such funding undermines the ability of social workers to serve effectively, as they now undergo extensive training in ideologies concerning privilege and oppression.
This trend raises concerns about the direction of social work education and the potential implications for future generations of social workers in addressing diverse populations and challenges.
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