Education Secretary McMahon Unclear on Tulsa Race Massacre at Hearing

During a congressional hearing, Education Secretary Linda McMahon declined to confirm whether she was familiar with the Tulsa Race Massacre or civil rights icon Ruby Bridges when questioned by Rep. Summer Lee. McMahon repeatedly stated she would need to "look into it more" before responding, leaving unclear if lessons about these significant historical events would be considered "illegal DEI" under President Trump's executive order targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in schools. The administration's policies require schools to certify they are not engaging in "illegal DEI practices" or risk losing federal funding, a move that critics argue aims to whitewash American history by limiting teachings on race and civil rights. Lee criticized the administration's stance as an attempt to censor truths about slavery and the civil rights movement, comparing it to efforts to rewrite history with the Lost Cause narrative. McMahon's lack of clear responses raised concerns about her knowledge of key moments in Black history and the potential impact on educational content nationwide. These exchanges highlight ongoing tensions over educational curricula and civil rights history in the Trump administration's policy agenda.