WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration’s aggressive dismantling of the Education Department has reached critical levels, specifically impacting the agency's Office for Civil Rights, which previously enforced compliance in sexual violence cases at schools and universities.
The Office, once robust in tackling sexual assault complaints, has faced extensive layoffs, halving its staff and leaving a staggering backlog of over 25,000 discrimination cases. Investigations have dropped sharply; reports reveal fewer than ten sexual violence investigations have been opened in the past year, a stark decline from dozens typically initiated previously.
Critics note that the Trump administration's focus has shifted towards pursuing discrimination cases against schools accommodating transgender students, leading to nearly 50 ongoing investigations in this area, while cases of sexual violence languish with little resolution.
Lawyers representing victims have expressed frustration, with many cases stalled indefinitely and insufficient support from the Office for Civil Rights. “It feels like a big question mark right now,” stated one lawyer, emphasizing the challenges of holding schools accountable.
A recent acknowledgment from the Department of Education recognized the backlog crisis, revealing an effort to bring back some of the downsized staff amidst ongoing legal challenges regarding the layoffs.
Historically, the federal government has played a crucial role in holding educational institutions accountable, with past actions resulting in significant changes to ensure student safety. Victims are increasingly left with no choice but to seek recourse through lawsuits, as the civil rights office, which is meant to ensure justice is accessible, has faltered.
As much-needed oversight dissipates, advocates warn that civil rights progress is being undone, posing serious concerns for the future of student safety and rights in education settings.
