Rep. Chu Criticizes Education Department’s Decision to End Funding for Minority-Serving Institutions Programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On December 19, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon announced that the Department of Education would be winding down the Minority Serving Institution (MSI) Programs in response to a Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel opinioncalling the programs unconstitutional. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), Chair Emerita of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), released the following statement:

"As a former community college educator, I know that a quality, affordable college education is one of the most powerful tools to help students succeed and uplift entire communities. Yet far too many students of color, first-generation students, and low-income students face tremendous obstacles in obtaining a college degree. Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), including Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), serve over five million students nationwide and play a crucial role in breaking down these systemic barriers, empowering students, and fueling our next generation of leaders.

"The Trump administration's unilateral attempts to terminate MSI funding and shutter these Congressionally-authorized programs are reckless and will have devastating consequences- not only for students of color, but for all students enrolled in these institutions. I will continue to fight back against these attacks on MSIs and the students they serve. Every student must have an equal opportunity to achieve their American Dream."

Rep. Chu has been a champion for MSIs and AANAPISIs throughout her time in Congress. She has consistently advocated for their full funding during the annual appropriations process and most recently reintroducedher bipartisan AANAPISI Week resolution recognizing the important work of these institutions from September 22 - September 28, 2025.