U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono met with Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) leaders and educators on Thursday, expressing concerns about the Trump administration’s impact on public education. She described the situation as an “all-out assault on education” and urged educators to fight back.
Hirono addressed close to 30 teachers face-to-face at HSTA’s Oʻahu headquarters, with more joining via Zoom from across Hawaii. The attendees included members of the HSTA Board of Directors and various HSTA committees.
“We have to stand up for public education in a way we havenʻt been asked to before,” Hirono stated. She continued, “I’ve never seen an assault on education like I’m witnessing now.”
Hirono criticized the Republican approach to education oversight, saying, “There’s no oversight from the Republicans on anything that this president is doing. The only check we have right now is the courts.”
Her comments followed a federal judge’s decision to block the U.S. Department of Education’s actions to limit discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Hirono described this as a “complete overreach on the part of the federal government.”
The senator also expressed concerns about the administration’s plans to distribute education funds as block grants to states, which, she argued, could diminish support for programs like Title 1 and IDEA.
Teachers across Hawaii shared their concerns with Hirono. Susan Chandler noted, “Public schools have been under attack since segregation.” Ryan Tong criticized the administration’s efforts to censor educators. Karin Hansen Del Rey and Ashley Olson highlighted ongoing efforts to provide inclusive education despite potential challenges.
Hirono suggested four ways educators can respond: communicate effectively, pursue litigation, support legislation, and ensure oversight. She emphasized the need for litigation to challenge executive orders and for legislative action to protect voting rights.
“This is a fight we all need to commit to,” Hirono said, urging educators to maintain their efforts in advocating for public education.
