Understanding Recent Cuts to ADEI Programs—And Their Impact on Eau Claire

paved path through bushes

By Erin Ries and Jen Barnet

In the past year, national policies have significantly rolled back programs supporting Anti-racism, Discrimination, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI). These changes are already being felt in Eau Claire—affecting schools, healthcare, community programs, veterans’ services, and opportunities for underrepresented groups.

What is ADEI?

ADEI efforts promote fairness, dignity, and opportunity—no matter someone’s race, gender, ability, income, or background. These programs began during the Civil Rights Movement and continue today through fair hiring practices, accessible education, culturally responsive healthcare, and public accountability.

ADEI isn’t about “special treatment.” It’s about removing roadblocks that have historically kept some people from fully participating in society. And research shows that inclusive policies benefit everyone—creating stronger communities, better outcomes, and a more just economy.

Why the Pushback?

Some opponents argue ADEI is political, divisive, or prioritizes identity over merit. Others feel excluded or resentful of change. And some marginalized individuals feel frustrated when ADEI efforts are more symbolic than transformative.

A helpful way to think about ADEI is the “house on fire” analogy: if one house is burning, we focus our resources there—not because other homes don’t matter, but because immediate harm demands immediate attention. ADEI aims to reduce harm, lift people up, and bring fairness where it’s long been missing.

What’s Happening Nationally?

Recent federal changes include:

  • Over $600 million cut from teacher training and inclusive curriculum development.
  • The “Dismantle DEI Act of 2024”, restricting federal agencies and contractors from engaging in ADEI work.
  • Pressure on colleges to drop race-conscious admissions and hiring practices.
  • Several Wisconsin health systems have removed DEI content from websites—potentially weakening programs that address disparities in care.

What This Means for Eau Claire

Even though Wisconsin hasn’t banned ADEI programs, national cuts are already hitting home:

  • AmeriCorps funding cuts have led to the loss of local school field trips, youth summer camps, environmental education, and homeless outreach programs.
  • Healthcare programs like BadgerCare face uncertainty under proposed $880 billion federal budget cuts. Local providers like the Chippewa Valley Free Clinic may struggle to meet the needs of working families, rural patients, and people with disabilities.
  • Local schools may lose funding for programs that help educators support diverse learners and foster inclusive classrooms.
  • Nonprofits and equity-focused initiatives risk losing critical grant support.
  • Hiring practices may shift away from equity, making it harder for people of color, women, and people with disabilities to access stable, well-paying jobs.

Veterans Are Also at Risk

Eau Claire-area veterans are facing growing challenges:

  • VA Staffing Cuts: The Department of Veterans Affairs is reducing staff nationally, and local clinics like the Chippewa Valley VA in nearby Chippewa Falls may face longer wait times, especially for mental health and PACT Act-related care (toxic exposure claims).
  • AmeriCorps Cuts: Veterans previously benefited from community programs supported by AmeriCorps—such as peer recovery efforts and family literacy programs. These resources are now gone or significantly reduced.
  • PACT Act Delays: Thousands of Wisconsin veterans submitted PACT Act claims in the last year. Staffing shortages could delay decisions, health screenings, and access to benefits—especially for those exposed to toxins during service.

These changes increase stress, reduce care access, and make it harder for veterans in our community to get the support they’ve earned.

What You Can Do

JONAH (Joining Our Neighbors Advancing Hope) believes that community change starts with us. Here’s how you can take action:

  • Learn and share: Start conversations about what ADEI really means—and how it strengthens our whole community.
  • Speak up: Contact school boards, city council members, and legislators to express support for inclusive policies and services.
  • Volunteer: Join a JONAH task force focused on issues like racial justice, mental health, or housing. Your voice matters.
  • Tell your story: If you’ve been helped by ADEI work—at school, work, the doctor’s office, or the VA—share it. Stories make change real.

The path forward is challenging, but together we are powerful. With compassion, persistence, and community, we can keep building a future where everyone in Eau Claire has the opportunity to thrive.