Education Secretary Linda McMahon indicated that she was unaware of the Tulsa Race Massacre under questioning about President Donald Trump's "illegal" restrictions on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies in U.S. schools.
During a Wednesday hearing before the House Committee on Education & Workforce, Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA) said that the Trump administration had "undoubtedly revived the culture of racism."
"They've made it clear that open attacks on Black and brown and other marginalized communities is not just tolerated, but it's encouraged," Lee told McMahon. "So let's talk about so-called illegal DEI, as you all have called it, a phrase you continually bring up that I'm still unclear on, especially after three federal judges have preliminarily ruled that your illegal DEI guidance is likely unconstitutional and unenforceable. Illegal, as it were."
"Would you say that it would be an illegal DEI for a lesson plan on the Tulsa Race Massacre?"
"I'd have to get back to you on that," McMahon replied.
"Do you know what the Tulsa Race Massacre is?" Lee wondered.
"I'd like to look into it more and get back to you on it," McMahon stated.
"How about social studies standards that teach President Biden won the 2020 election?" Lee pressed.
"I think our study should all be taught accurately," McMahon insisted.
"Yes or no?" the Democratic lawmaker demanded. "No, no, no. The question was, do you believe that social study standards that teach that President Biden won the 2020 election is an illegal DEI? Yes or no?"
"I think I have said we should teach accurately," McMahon repeated.
"No, you have not answered the question," Lee noted. "I don't understand why you're incapable of answering you."
McMahon, however, insisted she had answered the question.
"No, the answer is yes or no," Lee argued.
"The answer is I believe history has to be taught accurately," McMahon said again.
