This past Monday, CNN Politics reported that the Trump administration would be ending the “Let Girls Learn” initiative spearheaded by former first lady Michelle Obama.
“Let Girls Learn” was launched in 2015, and it works to advance educational opportunities for young girls in developing countries. “Let Girls Learn” is currently operating in 44 countries around the world. Michelle Obama responded to the reports through a tweet, in which she stated she and her husband, former president Barack Obama, would continue to fight for girls’ education.
However, later that day, details emerged that the White House would not be discontinuing the entire program. The Hill reports that the White House will simply stop using the “Let Girls Learn” name, and it will no longer be a stand-alone program. However, aspects of the program will still be in place.
This stripping down of “Let Girls Learn” is just another example of the Trump administration’s disregard for women’s rights. This comes just days after Republicans passed a health care bill that contains a clause that will eliminate federal funding to Planned Parenthood for an entire year. This is a major loss for women’s health care, as Planned Parenthood heavily relies on federal funding to run their facilities.
Republicans have made their distaste for Planned Parenthood very clear, and it is likely that they will attempt to dismantle the organization even more during the next four years. With a president who has openly admitted to sexually assaulting women in the White House, it is clear the current administration has very little regard for women’s rights. Fighting for equality is now more important than ever.