Statement: Office of Civil Rights Belongs at Department of Education

Today, the Trump administration announced plans to further dismantle the Department of Education by transferring the Office for Civil Rights to the Department of Justice.

In response, Emma Grasso Levine, Senior Manager of Title IX Policy and Programs at Know Your IX (a survivor- and youth-led project of Advocates for Youth), issued the following statement:

“Today’s announcement threatens the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights’ essential support for students experiencing discrimination, who rely on the federal government to enforce their civil rights and hold schools accountable. By continuing to gut the Department of Education, the Trump administration has done immeasurable harm to young people, leaving students’ complaints unanswered and jeopardizing their right to an education free from discrimination and violence. We need more funding, staffing, and stability at the Office for Civil Rights – not less.

These illegal tactics defy Congressional authority and create confusing, bureaucratic processes for schools, families, and students who just want equal access to education. As we condemn all efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and erode the Office for Civil Rights, we must recommit to our advocacy for safe and supportive school environments where all young people can thrive.”

Advocates and student organizers are available for interviews to discuss attacks on the Department of Education, the Office for Civil Rights, and what they mean for students across the country.

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Advocates for Youth is a 501(c)3 organization that champions efforts that help young people make informed decisions about their reproductive and sexual health. Advocates for Youth boldly advocates for a more positive and realistic approach to adolescent sexual health, focusing its work on young people ages 14-24 in the U.S. and around the globe.

For Immediate Release: June 16, 2026

Contact: Eleanor Naiman, [email protected]