We Hold These Truths
We Hold These Truths
We Hold These Truths
| 10.1.19

Department of Education Threatens to Pull Funds from Middle Eastern Studies Program for Focus on Islam

Was the Department of Education justified in pulling the Duke-UNC language grant?

by We Hold These Truths | 10.1.19

Last week, the U.S. Department of Education announced that it planned to cut funding for a Middle Eastern Studies Program run by the University of North Carolina and Duke University for, among other things, unfairly promoting “the positive aspects of Islam” over other religions.


Article: Feds cite Islam focus in review of Duke-UNC language grant

Advocates for religious freedom and educational autonomy argue that the move was purely political and designed to foster Islamophobia. Representatives from the Department of Education argue that the University Programs stepped outside the parameters of the grant to favor one religion over others.


Additional sources: Trump Administration Orders Changes to Duke, UNC Curriculum 

The topic of religion in schools is often divisive. Do you think the Department of Education is overstepping boundaries? Let us know in the comments below.