Schools Hold Steady as Trump’s DEI Ban Deadline Looms
Schools and colleges across the U.S. are facing a tight deadline from the Trump administration to dismantle their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs or risk losing federal funding. Despite the pressure, many institutions aren’t rushing to make changes, believing they’re on solid legal ground and aware that cutting off funding is a complex and lengthy process.
Officials in states like Washington and California are advising schools to stay the course, emphasizing that the federal memo doesn’t alter existing laws or necessitate immediate action. New York City schools echo this sentiment, maintaining their current policies and curricula.
Some college leaders are outright dismissing the memo. Antioch University’s chief noted that most of higher education won’t comply unless federal law changes. Similarly, Western Michigan University’s president encouraged staff to “please proceed as usual.”
The memo, issued on February 14, demands that schools cease any practices involving differential treatment based on race. Critics view this as an overreach intended to stifle DEI efforts, potentially affecting everything from classroom discussions on racism to minority student organizations.
Education groups are urging institutions to avoid hasty decisions, pointing out that compliance investigations are rare and defunding is an arduous process. For instance, a 2022 case against Michigan’s education agency is still tied up in court. Catherine Lhamon, former head of the Department’s Office for Civil Rights, encourages schools to uphold inclusive education principles.
However, some institutions are opting for caution. The University of Cincinnati is reviewing DEI-related positions and removing related references from their website. Colorado State University’s chancellor advised compliance to avoid jeopardizing student and staff welfare.
In contrast, Republican-led states are welcoming the memo. Alabama’s state superintendent, Eric G. Mackey, stated that the directive aligns with their existing practices, anticipating no operational disruptions.
The memo reinterprets nondiscrimination laws, extending a 2023 Supreme Court ruling against race-based college admissions to various educational aspects, including hiring and scholarships. The American Federation of Teachers is challenging this guidance in court, alleging it infringes on free speech.
While some districts are quietly adjusting their equity goals, many are seeking legal clarification due to the memo’s ambiguity. Christine Tucci Osorio, superintendent in Minnesota, reassured staff that celebrations like African American History Month remain unaffected.
Despite concerns of immediate compliance, many believe “cooler heads are largely prevailing,” as noted by Liz King from the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. She warns that failing to support all community members can erode trust and relationships within schools.
President Trump has indicated intentions to leverage education funding to advance his political agenda on various issues, including transgender participation in sports and race-related curricula. Historically, cutting federal funds involves prolonged investigations and legal proceedings, making immediate defunding unlikely.
The last approved federal funding cut dates back to 1992, involving a California school district that ultimately complied before any funds were withdrawn.
–
