We respectfully write with deep concern over the Administration’s actions to eliminate all future funding for HEA-Title VI and Fulbright-Hays (102 (b)(6)), our nation’s foundational programs for International Education and Foreign Language Studies. In May 2025, the Department of Education abruptly cancelled an ongoing competition for Fulbright-Hays programs that began in October 2024.
In June, the President’s FY 2026 Budget Request proposed zero funding for these programs in FY 2026, stating that the programs “are inconsistent with Administration priorities and do not advance American interests or values.” On September 10th, the Department informed all Title VI non-competing continuation grantees that their FY 2025 funding provided by the U.S. Congress in the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Resolution Act and signed by President Trump was repurposed to other unrelated programs, again without specific reason or consultation with the Congress.
Letters and statements endorsed by LASA and jointly issued with other organizations are presented in the original language of the source document, without translation or modification, to preserve the integrity and ensure the original intent of the message.
About LASA
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.