Nonprofit Rejects Federal Grant Over DEI Concerns, Highlighting Broader Backlash

A Boston-based nonprofit organization has declined a federal grant due to concerns about potential repercussions related to the former president's stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The organization, 826 Boston, provides free tutoring and writing programs to a large number of students. They turned down a $250,000 grant offered by Americorps, an agency that supports nonprofits through volunteer stipends.

The decision was made after the organization's grant application was flagged for including the terms "diversity, equity, and inclusion." These terms were targeted by the former president, who mandated their removal from any organization seeking federal funding. The board of directors of 826 Boston unanimously voted to reject the funding.

The nonprofit is now facing a significant budget shortfall, which will impact its ability to hire tutors for the upcoming year. The organization's leadership expressed concern about the financial implications of this decision.

Americorps itself is also facing challenges. The agency's leadership was placed on leave, and many staff members were put on administrative leave with pay. Additionally, volunteers in the National Civilian Community Corps were informed that they would be exiting the program early.

The executive director of 826 Boston explained that the organization could not operate under the uncertainty of potentially jeopardizing its funding. The organization wanted to take a firm stance while also proactively restructuring its operations.

Other institutions are also responding to the former president's stance on DEI programs. Harvard University has had its funding frozen and has been ordered to end all DEI programs. The university has responded by suing, citing concerns about free speech. The University of Michigan and Case Western Reserve University have also taken steps to close or restructure their DEI offices.