“Elon Musk And DOGE’s Access To Student Loan Data Raises Concern” -Forbes

WHAT’S HAPPENING: In an effort to root out “corruption,” Department of Governmental Efficiency gained access to the Department of Education, which Trump has repeatedly said he would end. Musk and his “team” gained access to Americans’ private information like student loan payments, social security numbers, and more. As of this week, the Department of Governmental Efficiency even went as far as to end lawsuits regarding book bans and slashed education research contracts and grants. These cuts mainly targeted the Institute of Education Sciences which tracks student progress over the years (their most recent study showed the decline in students reading levels since COVID-19), and makes sure federal programs are effective for students. 

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN: Students’ development is impacted without these ongoing studies and the assurances they provide. It’s clear that Musk doesn’t care if our education system fails, as long as he is making money off of American taxpayers. Everyone has the right to a quality education, and this right shouldn’t be determined by an un-elected foreign national billionaire. 

WHAT CAN YOU DO: Only by protecting our education system can we even the playing field and make strides toward economic justice. Future Coalition urges elected leaders to act quickly to protect our private information and our rights. Young people have made it clear that this is a defining moment to protect and transform our government. To take the next step, click here to send a message to your legislators to stop DOGE in their tracks!

“Trump curtails protections around diversity, LGBTQ rights”

-Reuters

WHAT’S HAPPENING: Trump’s administration has moved to erase references to LGBTQ+ people from federal websites. At least 8,000 web pages have been impacted in total. While this is reminiscent of similar updates during Trump’s first term, this act along with his Executive Orders targeting trans youth seeking care and trans athletes makes it difficult for LGBTQIA+ people to find the resources they need.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN: The Trump administration wants to erase LGBTQIA+ people. In order to have accurate public policy, there needs to be inclusive data. This can also affect the care members of the LGBTQIA+ community receive - if doctors can’t access important information, the way they treat patients will change.

WHAT CAN YOU DO: Donald Trump’s mission to divide Americans is disheartening, but it makes the work we do all the more important. We are determined to fight for the rights of young people and uplift the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community, which is why we are proud to work with groups like OutVote. Despite Trump’s recent attacks on the trans community, OutVote is fighting to make their voices heard - through voting. We’re proud to offer support for youth-led groups like OutVote during Trump’s presidency - when their work is even more essential. For more information on how OutVote is fighting back, click here.