The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the American Sociological Association (ASA) have filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Education Department, contesting a Trump administration memo demanding schools eliminate diversity programs within two weeks or lose federal funding. The directive, issued February 14, cites a recent Supreme Court ruling on race-conscious college admissions to justify banning race-based practices in all educational operations.
No federal law prevents teaching about race or advancing diversity in education,the lawsuit states, arguing the policy violates free speech and due process rights.
The Education Department’s memo applies the Supreme Court decision to admissions, hiring, financial aid, and even student organizations. Critics warn this overreach could impact:
- Recruitment initiatives for underrepresented groups
- Cultural heritage clubs like Black student unions
- Discussions of systemic racism in history courses
AFT President Randi Weingarten called the policy a blatant attempt to whitewash curricula,noting educators could face penalties for teaching about slavery or Native American displacement. The department’s acting civil rights chief, Craig Trainor, countered that the order prevents racial stereotypes in campus programs.
With Friday’s compliance deadline looming, the lawsuit seeks an immediate injunction. Over 9,000 sociologists and 1.7 million teachers risk losing essential funding if the policy stands.