STATEMENT: Aquí Executive Director Sindy M. Benavides Condemns Dismantling the Department of Education
Mar. 07, 2025 —
In response to the mass layoff in the U.S. Department of Education, Aquí: The Accountability Movement Executive Director Sindy M. Benavides issued the following statement:
“The reckless decision to dismantle the Department of Education and cut half its staff is a direct attack on millions of students, particularly Latino children and other marginalized communities who rely on federal protections, funding, and oversight to access a quality education. Lack of access to a quality education exacerbates poverty, negative health outcomes and inequality. This move threatens decades of progress in civil rights enforcement, bilingual education, and equitable resources for our nation’s students.
“Education is the foundation of opportunity in America. By eliminating the very institution designed to uphold that promise, this administration is turning its back on American families, particularly immigrant students and communities of color who already face systemic barriers in our schools. This decision will exacerbate educational inequities, strip funding from under-resourced schools, and weaken accountability for states and local districts—jeopardizing the future of an entire generation that will hinder economic growth in our nation.
“We refuse to be silent while this administration dismantles the right to an equitable education. Aquí will fight alongside students, parents, educators, and advocates to resist this dangerous action and demand that our leaders uphold the fundamental promise of education for all.”
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About Aquí: The Accountability Movement
Aquí: The Accountability Movement is dedicated to combating misrepresentation, exclusion, and hate against Latinos. Through high-impact campaigns and grassroots advocacy, the organization empowers communities and holds institutions accountable for their actions. It amplifies authentic Latino voices and stories, fostering stronger representation in media and leadership roles. For more information on Aquí and its mission, please visit aqui.org.