A newly released investigation reveals extensive federal funding allocated to social justice initiatives in American schools.
According to The Daily Wire, the Department of Justice has distributed over $100 million through its STOP School Violence Program to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices and restorative justice programs in classrooms between 2021 and 2024.
The investigation, conducted by Parents Defending Education (PDE), uncovered that these grants impacted 946 school districts across 36 states, reaching approximately 3 million K-12 students.
The funding was primarily directed toward implementing restorative justice practices, social and emotional learning initiatives, and DEI programs, marking a significant shift in how federal education funds are being utilized.
The Department of Justice awarded substantial grants to various institutions and organizations across different states. Minnesota's Department of Education received nearly $2 million to establish anti-racism and anti-oppression practices in learning environments. Bowling Green State University in Ohio was granted a similar amount to develop mental health programs featuring unconventional approaches like mindfulness meditation and knitting circles.
Pennsylvania emerged as a significant recipient of these grants, with multiple high-value projects. Penn State received over $1.7 million for a cyberbullying prevention project specifically targeting marginalized communities. Additionally, a collaborative program involving Temple University and The School District of Philadelphia was awarded more than $1.6 million to address violence through community policing and trauma-informed conflict resolution.
These initiatives represent a broader trend in federal education funding, with particular emphasis on addressing historical inequalities and promoting inclusive educational environments. The programs specifically target support for LGBTQ students, students of color, and other historically marginalized groups.
PDE president Nicki Neily expressed strong criticism of the DOJ's funding priorities:
It's appalling, although not surprising, that DOJ bureaucrats would prioritize DEI initiatives over student safety. American families deserve better, and the sooner waste like this is eliminated, the better.
The investigation revealed that many funded projects brought in external consultants from organizations like "Courageous Conversations About Race" and "International Institute for Restorative Practices." These consultants were tasked with training both students and staff in various social justice practices and methodologies.
Several notable grants across different states demonstrate the wide-ranging scope of these initiatives. In California, Reach Out West End received $1 million to improve school safety with a focus on LGBTQIA+ issues. Ocean County in New Jersey was awarded the same amount for a program that addresses various forms of conflict, from teasing to systemic oppression.
The timing of this revelation coincides with significant political changes on the horizon. President-elect Donald Trump's recent victory in the 2024 election, following a campaign that strongly opposed gender ideology and progressive educational practices, suggests possible changes in federal education funding priorities.
The findings from this investigation highlight the extensive reach of federal funding in shaping educational approaches across the country. From 2021 to 2024, the Department of Justice distributed over $100 million through 102 grants, affecting hundreds of school districts and millions of students.
The programs funded under these grants focused on implementing restorative justice practices, social-emotional learning, and DEI initiatives, sparking debate about the appropriate use of federal education funds and their impact on student safety and academic achievement.
