Federal funding at risk if diversity initiatives not eliminated within 14 days
The US Education Department mandated the removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from public schools within 14 days, warning that non-compliance could result in the loss of federal funding.
The directive, outlined in a letter sent to state education departments on Friday, reinforced the federal government's stance on anti-discrimination laws, particularly Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor said institutions receiving federal funds must eliminate race-based policies in admissions, financial aid, hiring, and other activities.
The letter cited concerns that DEI initiatives have led to discrimination, particularly against white and Asian students, and condemned practices such as segregated graduation ceremonies, dormitories, and training programs.
The directive also rejected narratives of "systemic and structural racism" in education, asserting that federal civil rights law prohibits race-based decision-making in all aspects of academic and campus life.
Trainor emphasized that schools must ensure their policies do not favor or disadvantage any group based on race.
In a related move, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced on X that the Education Department cancelled 70 DEI training grants worth $373 million in the last two days.
