Protesters block Education Dept's 'History Rocks!' tour in several states

March 30, 2026 - 18:52

A nationwide educational tour organized by the Department of Education is meeting with organized resistance as it travels across the country. The "History Rocks!" initiative, which aims to promote America's founding principles, has been blocked by groups of protesters in several states, disrupting scheduled events.

Protesters have expressed strong opposition to the tour's curriculum and messaging, arguing that it presents a sanitized and overly patriotic version of American history. They contend it overlooks critical aspects of the nation's past, including the histories of marginalized communities and the complexities of foundational events. Demonstrators have gathered at tour stops, chanting and holding signs to voice their dissent and physically prevent access to the events.

Proponents of the tour, including Education Secretary Linda McMahon, defend it as a vital program to foster patriotism and civic pride among students. They emphasize its focus on the nation's core documents and ideals. The confrontations highlight the deep and ongoing national debate over how history should be taught in American schools, a contentious issue that has sparked legislation and heated school board meetings nationwide. The department has not yet indicated if the tour's schedule will be altered in response to the protests.