Sahar Mustafah on the ADL’s Quiet Indoctrination of American Schools

Key Takeaways:

• On July 7th, the NEA voted to cut ties with the ADL.
• The NEA resolution declares the ADL is “not the social justice educational partner it claims to be.”
• NEA is a labor organization representing education professionals.
• The decision could influence how schools approach social justice partnerships.
• Literary Hub published this story on August 27, 2025.

Introduction

In a significant turn of events for American education, the Representative Assembly of the National Education Association (NEA) voted on July 7th to sever all ties with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The vote stemmed from concerns that the ADL does not live up to its reputation as a civil rights organization—at least, not in the eyes of the NEA.

Background on the NEA

The NEA is a labor organization that represents the interests of educators. Over the years, it has formed partnerships with various advocacy groups in an effort to promote social justice and inclusivity in the classroom. This latest move signals a clear shift in how the NEA approaches collaborations with established organizations.

Why the NEA Severed Ties

“Despite its reputation as a civil rights organization, the ADL is not the social justice educational partner it claims to be,” the NEA’s resolution stated. By using such forceful language, the NEA has underscored what it sees as a disconnect between the ADL’s stated mission and its actual role in educational programs.

Broader Implications for Education

Many educators look to reputable organizations for tools, resources, and training related to social justice. The NEA’s decision to cut ties with the ADL could prompt schools and teachers to reassess the influences shaping their curricula. While the full effects remain to be seen, this vote raises questions about how national advocacy groups might better align with the evolving standards of equity and inclusion in classrooms across the country.

Conclusion

The NEA’s break with the ADL is a noteworthy moment in an ongoing conversation about the role of external advocacy groups in American schools. As educators, unions, and policymakers grapple with shifting definitions of social justice, the NEA’s stance may spark broader reflection on how partnerships can—and should—serve the best interests of students and educators alike.