During a House Education and Workforce Committee hearing on June 4, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon faced scrutiny for her apparent unfamiliarity with significant events in Black American history. Representative Summer Lee (D-PA) questioned McMahon about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and civil rights icon Ruby Bridges, highlighting concerns over the Trump administration's stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in education.

When Rep. Lee inquired whether teaching about the Tulsa Race Massacre would be considered "illegal DEI" under the administration's policies, McMahon responded, "I'd have to get back to you on that." Further pressed on her knowledge of the massacre, McMahon admitted, "I'd like to look into it more and get back to you on it.”

The Tulsa Race Massacre, which occurred from May 31 to June 1, 1921, involved a white mob attacking the prosperous Black community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The violence destroyed over 35 square blocks, including homes and businesses, and led to the deaths of an estimated 75 to 300 Black residents.

Rep. Lee also questioned McMahon about Ruby Bridges, who, at six years old, became the first Black child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South in 1960. McMahon stated she had not read Bridges' book, "Through My Eyes," and did not provide a clear answer on whether teaching about Bridges would violate DEI policies.

The exchange underscores ongoing debates about the inclusion of comprehensive Black history in school curricula. Critics argue that the administration's efforts to limit DEI initiatives may lead to the erasure of crucial historical events and figures from educational materials.

As debates over educational content continue, the incident has sparked discussions about the importance of historical literacy among education policymakers and theconsequences of limiting DEI-related teachings in schools.