Carter G. Woodson’s Warning and the Urgency for Black Educational Independence

In 1933, Carter G. Woodson published The Mis-Education of the Negro, a powerful critique of an education system that conditioned Black people to serve others rather than build for themselves. Today, his words resonate more than ever as discussions about dismantling the U.S. Department of Education resurface. While some fear the implications for marginalized communities, Woodson would likely perceive this as an opportunity—an overdue call for Black Americans to seize control of their education.

Education as a Tool for Liberation, Not Dependency

Woodson warned that the American education system was not designed to empower Black people but rather to make them “seek entrance into a world that does not want them.” He lamented that educated Black individuals, rather than using their knowledge to uplift their communities, often became unwitting enforcers of white supremacy—trained to think of themselves as inferior and to perpetuate systems that keep Black people dependent.

He famously wrote: “When you control a man’s thinking, you don’t have to worry about his actions… If there’s no backdoor, he will create one for his own benefit.” The Black community has long depended on an education system that was never intended to serve its best interests. The question now is: Why continue to do so?

A System That Has Failed Black Americans

For decades, Black students have encountered systemic obstacles in the public education system—underfunded schools, biased curricula, and policies that criminalize rather than support them. The school-to-prison pipeline disproportionately impacts Black youth, while Black history is frequently whitewashed or entirely omitted.

If the federal education system is weakened or dismantled, Black Americans must recognize the moment for what it is: not merely a challenge but also an opportunity. It is time to establish Black-owned and community-controlled educational institutions that provide more than just compliance—they should teach self-sufficiency, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and Black history through an empowerment lens.

Instead of relying on a flawed system, Woodson’s teachings advocate for direct action in education. Supporting Black-owned schools and institutions is vital. Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), charter schools, and homeschooling networks deserve full community backing. If the government won’t invest in our children’s future, we must take the lead. Emphasizing trade skills and entrepreneurship is equally important. Rather than solely advocating for traditional four-year college degrees, Black youth should be provided with practical skills in business, technology, and skilled trades that promote economic independence.

We have missed the mark by failing to teach vocational skills to Black youth in our high schools. These skills are not just a means to secure employment, but rather a way to establish institutions instead of simply working for white-owned businesses. The lack of vocational education has left generations unprepared to build and sustain their economic foundations. By reintroducing and emphasizing skilled trades, we can empower young Black individuals to become entrepreneurs, craftsmen, and industry leaders who create wealth and job opportunities within their communities.

It is equally important to ensure that Black communities play an active role in selecting school board trustees who have a vision for uplifting Black youth, rather than perpetuating cycles of dependency. Too often, we become part of the problem by continuing to view education through a slave-minded lens, which does a greater disservice to our community. Meanwhile, we participate in superficial networking events that feature wine and cheese. We must demand leadership that prioritizes empowerment over photo opportunities and is dedicated to fostering self-sufficiency in Black education.

Reclaiming Black history and cultural education is vital. The mainstream curriculum erases or distorts Black history, and Black-run educational initiatives must center our achievements and resilience. Developing community-led educational models is another crucial step. Online learning, mentorship programs, and grassroots education movements can fill the gaps left by failing public schools. Encouraging political and economic literacy is equally important. Understanding how wealth and power function is crucial. Teaching Black students about real estate, investing, cooperative economics, and political advocacy is essential for long-term empowerment.

If the Department of Education is dismantled or weakened, the government will no longer be a crutch—nor an excuse. Black Americans must seize this moment to redefine education on their terms. The shift away from a federally controlled education system means we must rebuild from within, ensuring that future generations are empowered and employable.