Recent developments have emerged regarding the Trump administration’s stance on Native Hawaiian higher education programs. Education Secretary Linda McMahon is advocating to eliminate race-based funding conditions from taxpayer resources. This could significantly impact an estimated $12 million allocated to programs supporting Native Hawaiians.
Concerns Over Funding for Native Hawaiian Programs
President Wendy Hensel of the University of Hawaiʻi informed students and faculty of the potential consequences stemming from a U.S. Department of Education decision. According to federal lawyers, programs providing funding based on race, including those for Native Hawaiians, are deemed unconstitutional.
Review of Minority-Specific Programs
The Department of Education’s review will focus on all initiatives serving Black, Hispanic, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native communities. Officials indicate that programs historically supporting minority institutions might face reductions or discontinuation.
One significant argument presented by the Department asserts that Native Hawaiian programs do not have the same constitutional protections as those for Indian tribes. This is due to a lack of a government-to-government relationship with Hawaiian organizations, which undermines their eligibility for preferential treatment.
Response from University Officials
In her notification, Hensel mentioned that UH lawyers are currently examining the implications of this federal opinion. She acknowledged the uncertainty and anxiety such news has caused among students and staff whose educational experiences rely on these funding sources.
Federal Funding Details
- More than $12.3 million in federal awards for Native Hawaiian programs is at risk.
- A total of $132 million for minority-serving programs nationwide will remain in place and not be revoked.
- No specific programs targeted for elimination have been disclosed yet.
Politicians’ Reactions
Hawaiʻi’s congressional members expressed their discontent with the administration’s actions, labeling it an “attack” on minority-serving institutions. U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz, alongside Representatives Ed Case and Jill Tokuda, condemned the potential impact on educational opportunities.
They emphasized that these programs are crucial for supporters who have faced historical educational barriers. The legislators argue that undermining these initiatives does not contribute to improved educational outcomes.
As the situation continues to evolve, the University of Hawaiʻi remains committed to supporting the affected programs and surveying the ongoing legal changes that could shape their future.
