A coalition of 19 states sued the Trump administration Friday, according to Politico, aiming to block efforts to cut off billions in education funding over diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Led by California, New York, and others, the lawsuit argues that Trump’s directive is unconstitutional and unlawfully pressures schools to abandon DEI programs.
At stake is more than $18.7 billion in federal funding, crucial for supporting low-income and special education programs. State attorneys general accused Trump of exploiting anti-DEI rhetoric for political gain while endangering vulnerable students’ resources.
Trump officials defended the move, arguing federal funding is conditional. But the states’ lawsuit claims vague enforcement threatens legal programs aimed at creating inclusive school environments, calling it a direct attack on educational opportunity.
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