President Donald Trump’s recent executive orders have stirred controversy, particularly regarding the Department of Education’s handling of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs. His administration’s directive challenges the continued preservation of DEI initiatives, viewing them as a form of “left-wing indoctrination.”
His orders, for example, include dismantling civil rights protections that seek to address systemic inequalities in education. Trump appointed Linda McMahon, a businesswoman with limited background in education, to lead efforts aimed at rolling back these programs.
For years, Black students, families and communities have faced systemic obstacles that limit their access to fair educational opportunities. Despite these challenges, local organizations are working tirelessly to support Black students and their families. In Minneapolis, two organizations — the Black Family Blueprint and Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (NdCAD) — are playing an essential role in providing education and support to Black communities.
The Black Family Blueprint, founded by Ayolanda and Mujasi Jaara Bandele, offers a comprehensive program to empower Black families, focusing on education, emotional healing, and overall well-being. The program aims to level the playing field by ensuring that Black families have the tools, resources and opportunities they need to succeed. One of its cornerstone initiatives, “Parenting Against White Supremacy,” addresses the unique challenges Black parents face in raising children in a society that often marginalizes them.
“We know that Black families are continuously impacted by systems that aren’t designed with us in mind,” said Ayolanda Bandele. “Our work at Black Family Blueprint is to offer families the tools to heal, educate, and build resilience so they can overcome the challenges that many have yet to recognize.”
Mujasi Jaara Bandele, co-founder of Black Family Blueprint, underscores the importance of addressing generational trauma in parenting. “One of the biggest issues we see is that many Black parents are conditioned to discipline their children through fear and control, often because they themselves were subjected to corporal punishment growing up,” he said. “Our goal is to help parents replace these harmful practices with more compassionate, developmentally appropriate methods that still uphold respect and authority.”
The program’s impact is evident in the stories of families who have seen tangible improvements. A mother who participated in the “Parenting Against White Supremacy” curriculum shared that she stopped using corporal punishment on her two young sons, adopting gentler, more thoughtful disciplinary methods. This shift in approach led to a stronger relationship with her children and positive changes in their behavior and emotional well-being.
Mujasi Jaara Bandele explains the importance of developmental understanding in parenting: “When we check ourselves, we teach children to understand if their behavior is appropriate for their developmental stage. Recognizing this allows the parent to respond with developmental understanding, using logical or natural consequences tailored to the child’s needs.”
The Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (NdCAD) shares a similar commitment to the empowerment of Black families, focusing on literacy and the development of a healthy African identity. “Our goal is for our children and families to become self-harmonized, understanding that their identity is a key part of their success in school and beyond,” said Gevonee Ford, executive director of NdCAD.
Ford emphasizes that when children understand their culture and history, their academic success follows. “It’s important because it helps me understand who I am, who our people are, and what we want to build in our community,” says Ford. “When children understand their history and their place in the world, they are empowered to succeed academically and in life.”
The Sankofa Reading Program, one of NdCAD’s key initiatives, has shown tremendous success in helping children connect reading with understanding their cultural heritage. Ford recalls the impact of the program during a recent graduation ceremony:
“One of the students, who struggled to attend any other class, said that the Sankofa Reading Program was the only class she consistently attended.” The program not only boosts academic performance, but also fosters a sense of cultural pride, empowering students to embrace their identities.
In addition to working with children, NdCAD provides resources for parents, ensuring they too can support their children’s educational journeys. “Our companion program, Parent Power Literacy and Advocacy Workshops, helps parents make the same critical connections as their children,” Ford explains.
The work of organizations like Black Family Blueprint and NdCAD is particularly significant in light of President Trump’s push to reduce DEI programs at the federal level. As his administration continues to challenge the importance of such programs, the need for grassroots initiatives that focus on self-empowerment and Black-led institutions has never been greater.
“We cannot rely solely on systems that were never meant to serve us,” Ayolanda Bandele said. “At Black Family Blueprint, we are teaching our people to build their own resources, support one another, and be leaders in our own communities.”
As the political landscape continues to shift, the focus on mutual aid and self-sufficiency remains vital. In response to the loss of institutional support, these organizations are providing communities with the tools needed for long-term survival and empowerment. The Black Family Blueprint, for instance, is planning several community events, including one on mental health, to support the emotional well-being of parents and children alike.
Despite the political challenges and the reduction of federal support for DEI programs, organizations like Black Family Blueprint are committed to fostering resilience and empowerment in Black communities. By continuing to provide resources, support and education, these groups are ensuring that Black families are equipped to build a future grounded in equity, healing, and self-sufficiency.
To attend Black Family Blueprints’ educational events, visit blackfamilyblueprint.com.
For NdCAD’s literary support and other educational services, visit ndcad.org.
Clint Combs welcomes reader responses at ccombs@spokesman-recorder.com.