Judge strikes down Trump administration guidance against DEI programs at schools, colleges
pantagraph.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 3:29:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Civil Lawsuits & Defamation Cases, Presidential Campaigns, Supreme Court & Judicial Appointments
WASHINGTON -- A federal judge on Thursday struck down two Trump administration actions aimed at eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs at the nation's schools and universities.
In her ruling, U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher in Maryland found the Education Department violated the law when it threatened to cut federal funding from educational institutions that continued with DEI initiatives.
The guidance has been on hold since April when three federal judges blocked various portions of the Education Department's anti-DEI measures.
The ruling Thursday followed a motion for summary judgment from the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association, which challenged the government's actions in a February lawsuit.
The case centers on two Education Department memos ordering schools and universities to end all "race-based decision-making" or face penalties up to a total loss of federal funding. It's part of a campaign to end practices the Trump administration frames as discrimination against white and Asian American students.
The new ruling orders the department to scrap the guidance because it runs afoul of procedural requirements, though Gallagher wrote that she took no view on whether the policies were "good or bad, prudent or foolish, fair or unfair."
Gallagher, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, rejected the government's argument that the memos simply served to remind schools that discrimination is illegal.
"It initiated a sea change in how the Department of Education regulates educational practices and classroom conduct, causing millions of educators to reasonably fear that their lawful, and even beneficial, speech might cause them or their schools to be punished," Gallagher wrote.
Democracy Forward, a legal advocacy firm representing the plaintiffs, called it an important victory over the administration's attack on DEI.
"Threatening teachers and sowing chaos in schools throughout America is part of the administration's war on education, and today the people won," said Skye Perryman, the group's president and CEO.
A statement from the Education Department on Thursday said it was disappointed in the ruling but "judicial action enjoining or setting aside this guidance has not stopped our ability to enforce Title VI protections for students at an unprecedented level."
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The conflict started with a Feb. 14 memo declaring that any consideration of race in admissions, financial aid, hiring or other aspects of academic and student life would be considered a violation of federal civil rights law.
The memo dramatically expanded the government's interpretation of a 2023 Supreme Court decision barring colleges from considering race in admissions decisions. The government argued the ruling applied not only to admissions but across all of education, forbidding "race-based preferences" of any kind.
"Educational institutions have toxically indoctrinated students with the false premise that the United States is built upon 'systemic and structural racism' and advanced discriminatory policies and practices," wrote Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary of the department's Office for Civil Rights.
A further memo in April asked state education agencies to certify they were not using "illegal DEI practices." Violators risked losing federal money and being prosecuted under the False Claims Act, it said.
In total, the guidance amounted to a full-scale reframing of the government's approach to civil rights in education. It took aim at policies that were created to address longstanding racial disparities, saying those practices were their own form of discrimination.
The memos drew a wave of backlash from states and education groups that called it illegal government censorship.
In its lawsuit, the American Federation of Teachers said the government was imposing "unclear and highly subjective" limits on schools across the country. It said teachers and professors had to "choose between chilling their constitutionally protected speech and association or risk losing federal funds and being subject to prosecution."
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* paxan_semenov // Shutterstock
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Every year, students across the country must make an agonizing decision: where to go to college. The choices are endless: Big university or small private school? Close to home or far away? Urban life or tiny town? Even for those committed to certain ideas, choices abound.
College towns of all shapes and sizes often make major impacts on their surroundings. Rent is typically more expensive in college towns (and unfortunately, it's only going up). But that doesn't deter people from moving in. Many college towns have grown significantly in recent years, which has affected everything from income equality to state politics.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent ruling by U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher, which struck down the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in educational institutions, represents a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for social justice in America. This decision underscores the resistance to a broader political agenda that seeks to undermine decades of progress toward equity and inclusivity in education. The implications of this ruling extend far beyond the legal realm; they echo the historical struggles for civil rights, the importance of representation, and the urgent need for institutions to reflect the diverse fabric of our society.
Historically, DEI initiatives have emerged as a response to systemic inequalities that have long plagued educational institutions. These programs have sought to address disparities in access and representation, rooted in a legacy of racism and exclusion. The Trump administration's campaign against DEI programs marked a notable shift towards an interpretation of equity that favored a narrow, colorblind approach to policy. By framing these initiatives as discriminatory against white and Asian American students, the administration attempted to redefine the narrative around race in education. This ruling reaffirms the need to recognize and actively address the historical injustices that continue to affect marginalized communities, reinforcing that equity efforts are not merely about preferences but about rectifying past and ongoing inequalities.
Judge Gallagher's decision is bolstered by the legal actions taken by organizations like the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association, which highlight the critical role of collective advocacy in protecting educational integrity. The ruling reflects a broader recognition that the threats posed by the Trump administration's memos were not just legal overreaches but also an attack on teachers' rights and academic freedom. By chilling educators' ability to engage in discussions about race and equity, the administration sought to create an environment of fear and repression in classrooms. This ruling, therefore, is a victory not only for DEI initiatives but for the fundamental principles of free speech and educational expression.
Furthermore, the judge's assertion that the memos initiated a "sea change" in the regulation of educational practices underscores the urgent need for vigilance in safeguarding educational environments. As we reflect on this ruling, it is vital to engage in discussions about the broader implications of educational policy shifts. The resistance to DEI programs is part of a larger trend observed in various political arenas, where the push for inclusivity is met with backlash from those who fear the loss of traditional power structures. This moment serves as a reminder that the fight for equity is ongoing, and it is essential for advocates of social justice to remain steadfast in challenging narratives that seek to diminish the significance of diversity in our schools and communities.
In light of this decision, readers should also consider the historical significance of the fight for civil rights in education. The struggle for equitable access to education is not new; it has roots in landmark decisions such as Brown v. Board of Education, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. Today, the fight against policies that seek to erase or diminish the role of race in educational contexts is a continuation of that struggle. As we witness ongoing debates over curriculum, representation, and funding, it becomes clear that the legacy of civil rights is not just a historical footnote but a living framework that guides contemporary social movements. Advocates for equity must leverage this history to educate others about the importance of maintaining and advancing DEI programs as tools for building a more just society.
In conclusion, the ruling against the Trump administration's anti-DEI guidance is a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for social justice within educational institutions. This decision not only validates the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education but also serves as a rallying point for those advocating for systemic change. As we move forward, it is crucial to emphasize the interconnectedness of historical struggles for civil rights with contemporary initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity. Engaging in these discussions will empower individuals and communities to challenge oppressive narratives and affirm the necessity of DEI programs in creating an equitable educational landscape for all students.
The recent ruling by U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher, which struck down the Trump administration's attempts to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from educational institutions, marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for racial equity in America. This decision not only reaffirms the importance of DEI initiatives but also serves as a critical reminder of the historical context surrounding these programs and the persistent attempts to undermine them. DEI programs have emerged from decades of civil rights activism aimed at addressing systemic inequalities faced by marginalized communities, and this ruling represents a vital victory in preserving the progress made in educational equity.
Historically, the fight for DEI in education can be traced back to landmark civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which aimed to dismantle the institutional barriers that have perpetuated racial discrimination. By promoting diversity and inclusion within educational settings, institutions can create environments that reflect the rich tapestry of American society and provide equitable opportunities for all students. The Trump administration's actions to eliminate these programs were not merely policy decisions; they were part of a broader strategy that sought to roll back the gains made by communities of color. The ruling by Judge Gallagher challenges this regressive narrative and emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive educational landscape.
As Americans, there are several actions we can take to support DEI initiatives in our schools and universities and push back against regressive policies. First and foremost, it is essential to advocate for robust funding and support for DEI programs at the local, state, and federal levels. This can be accomplished by attending school board meetings, engaging in community discussions, and lobbying elected representatives to prioritize funding for DEI initiatives. Furthermore, we should actively participate in grassroots organizations that focus on educational equity, helping to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and advocate for systemic changes within our educational systems.
Additionally, the ruling provides a unique opportunity to engage in conversations with those who oppose DEI programs. Many critiques of DEI initiatives hinge on a misunderstanding of what these programs aim to achieve. By educating ourselves and others on the importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering a healthy educational environment, we can counter misinformation and promote a more nuanced understanding of these initiatives. Hosting community forums, sharing resources, and providing platforms for open dialogue can help bridge the gap between differing perspectives and build a stronger case for the necessity of DEI in education.
Finally, it is crucial to recognize that the fight for equity extends beyond the walls of educational institutions. As citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable for policies that impact marginalized communities across various sectors, including housing, healthcare, and employment. Supporting legislation that addresses these inequities and advocating for comprehensive reforms can create a ripple effect that strengthens DEI initiatives in education and beyond. The recent court ruling serves as a rallying point for those who believe in a just and equitable society, reminding us that we must continually fight against attempts to erase the progress made toward racial and social equity.
In conclusion, the ruling by Judge Gallagher represents not just a victory for DEI programs but also a reaffirmation of the importance of equity in education. It highlights the ongoing struggle against regressive policies that seek to diminish the progress made by marginalized communities. By taking action to support DEI initiatives, engaging in meaningful conversations, and advocating for systemic change, we can contribute to a more inclusive society that values diversity and equity for all. The path ahead may be challenging, but the recent court decision serves as a reminder that collective action can lead to significant change, and we must remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a more equitable future.
The recent ruling striking down the Trump administration's guidance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs is a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for equitable education. As concerned citizens, there are several actions we can take to support and promote DEI initiatives in our schools and communities. Here is a detailed list of ideas and specific actions you can undertake:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Advocate for DEI Programs**: Engage with local educational institutions to advocate for the implementation and continuation of DEI programs. 2. **Stay Informed**: Follow developments in education policy and local initiatives related to DEI to better understand how they impact your community.
3. **Support Organizations**: Contribute time or resources to organizations that promote equity and inclusion in education.
4. **Engage with Local School Boards**: Attend school board meetings to voice your support for DEI programs and initiatives.
5. **Raise Awareness**: Share information about DEI programs and their benefits on social media and in community forums to help educate others.
### Exact Actions We Can Take
1. **Sign Petitions**: - **Petition for DEI Programs in Schools**: Look for existing petitions on platforms like Change.org that call for the support or expansion of DEI initiatives at local schools and universities. - Example: You can search for a petition titled "Support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programs in Education" on Change.org.
2. **Write to Decision-Makers**: - **Contact Local School Board Members**: Reach out to your local school board to express your support for DEI initiatives. - Example: If you reside in Montgomery County, MD, you can contact: - **Montgomery County Board of Education** - Email: boe@mcpsmd.org - Mailing Address: 850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD 20850 - **Message State Education Officials**: Write to your state’s Department of Education to advocate for policies that support DEI. - Example: For Maryland, you can reach out to: - **State of Maryland Department of Education** - Email: mde.education@maryland.gov - Mailing Address: 200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201
3. **Participate in Community Forums**: - Engage in local community discussions and forums focused on education and equity. Look for events organized by local advocacy groups.
4. **Join or Support Advocacy Groups**: - Get involved with organizations that focus on education equity, such as: - **American Federation of Teachers** - Website: www.aft.org (check for local chapters) - **Democracy Forward** - Website: www.democracyforward.org
5. **Organize Local Events**: - Start or participate in local events such as workshops, discussions, or community outreach programs that focus on the importance of DEI in education.
### What to Say
When communicating with decision-makers or community members, consider using the following points in your message:
- **Highlight the Importance of DEI**: "Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for creating an environment in which all students can thrive and succeed. DEI programs help address systemic inequities that affect marginalized communities."
- **Cite Research and Benefits**: "Numerous studies have shown that diverse learning environments improve critical thinking skills, foster innovation, and prepare students for a multicultural workforce."
- **Express Support for Continued Funding**: "I urge you to support and protect DEI initiatives in our educational institutions. These programs not only benefit students but also strengthen our communities."
- **Encourage Open Dialogue**: "It is vital that we maintain an open dialogue about the importance of DEI. I encourage the school board to hold public forums about how we can enhance these programs in our schools."
By taking these actions, we can collectively work towards fostering inclusive educational environments that benefit all students and communities.