While on the surface, this executive order appears to be supportive of HBCUs, its impact is undermined by the dismantling of DEI initiatives through other executive orders. Without addressing systemic racism, it will continue to have a detrimental impact on student success and their ability to take advantage of any new opportunities. Systemic barriers include inequitable access to resources, structures that force unsustainable tradeoffs (e.g., inflexible, costly program requirements, such as mandatory appointments during times needed to caretake for a loved one), and more. If left unaddressed, these systemic barriers exacerbate existing educational inequities, impacting social determinants of health. Within the context of anti-DEI executive orders, EO 14283 fails to address the root of disparity and shifts the entire burden of overcoming structural barriers onto students themselves, and may not achieve its goals. Additionally, lower educational attainment could lead to lower-paying jobs or jobs that don’t offer robust benefits or medical insurance, thereby limiting access to care and coverage, contributing to poorer health outcomes.
A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government. Executive orders have the force of law but must align with existing statutes and constitutional authority.
Who It Impacts: Federal agencies and employees, directing them on how to implement laws or carry out government functions. Executive orders can also influence businesses and individuals when they relate to issues like immigration, trade, or labor policies.
Who Is Not Impacted: Private citizens and businesses do not have to directly follow an executive order unless it leads to regulations or policies that apply to them. For example, an executive order directing federal agencies to increase renewable energy use does not mandate action from private companies, but it may influence policy shifts that eventually affect them.
Summary
This executive order establishes the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The initiative is focused on increasing the role of the private sector in HBCUs institutional infrastructure and helping to provide opportunities for HBCU students. It also commits to making college and degree attainment more affordable, encouraging states to provide required State matching funds for 1890 Land-Grant institutions and enhancing the information regarding HBCUs in the public policy space.
Impact Analysis
Legal Challenges
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Take Institutional Action
- Track data on racial disparities in education and other relevant areas to be aware of the extent of the issue.
- Follow the NAACP and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation to monitor how EO 14283 is being implemented.
- Take (or continue to take) steps to dismantle systemic racism to shift policies, structures, practices and culture to mitigate existing disparity.
Associated or Derivative Policies
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Additional Resources
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