Historically Black colleges and universities were born out of “necessity” rather than the pursuit of school choice, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos Elizabeth (Betsy) Dee DeVosOVERNIGHT ENERGY: House Democrats tee up vote on climate-focused energy bill next week | EPA reappoints controversial leader to air quality advisory committee | Coronavirus creates delay in Pentagon research for alternative to 'forever chemicals' Senate Democrats demand White House fire controversial head of public lands agency Poll: Majority of teachers worried that school districts will reopen too quickly MORE said Tuesday.

In a series of tweets, DeVos acknowledged that the schools were initially established because African-American students were often not accepted to predominantly white colleges and universities.

#HBCUs are such an important piece of the fabric of American history—one that encompasses some of our nation's greatest citizens. — Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

Providing an alternative option to students denied the right to attend a quality school is the legacy of #HBCUs. — Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

But your history was born not out of mere choice, but out of necessity, in the face of racism, and in the aftermath of the Civil War. — Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

#HBCUs remain at the forefront of opening doors that had previously been closed to so many. — Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

We need more good schools. We need more good teachers. And no child should be denied the opportunity to enter a great school. Not one. — Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) February 28, 2017

The Education secretary took heat earlier Tuesday for calling HBCUs “real pioneers when it comes to school choice,” an education policy that DeVos has fervently advocated for.

“They are living proof that when more options are provided to students, they are afforded greater access and great quality,” DeVos said in a statement. “Their success has shown that more options help students flourish.”

But that comment immediately spurred criticism.

Leaders from the country’s HBCUs are currently in Washington meeting with President Trump Donald John TrumpTrump says he doesn't think he could've done more to stop virus spread Conservative activist Lauren Witzke wins GOP Senate primary in Delaware Trump defends claim coronavirus will disappear, citing 'herd mentality' MORE and administration officials and congressional Republicans. Trump signed an executive order aimed at boosting HBCUs Tuesday afternoon.