NYC Public Schools Reject Trump's DEI Funding Threat

New York State has defiantly refused a Trump administration order to end diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in public schools in exchange for federal funding. State officials argue the federal government lacks the authority to make such demands and that existing funding guarantees compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The core issue: The Trump administration demanded K-12 schools nationwide certify they're ending DEI practices within 10 days to receive federal money. This represents about 6% of New York's K-12 school funding.

<img src="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/16131503_040525-wabc-ny-schools-defy-trump-DEI-order-AP-img.jpg" alt="Children and their guardians leaving a school in Manhattan">

State's Response: In a letter, New York's Department of Education argued that there's no legal basis for the federal government's demands and that existing certifications already confirm compliance with relevant civil rights laws. They highlighted a seeming contradiction with statements made by previous administration officials about the importance of DEI.

The state's refusal echoes similar defiance against Trump-era attempts to control congestion pricing in NYC.

This action has drawn criticism, with some arguing it clashes with promises to return education control to states. The conflict highlights the ongoing tension between federal mandates and state autonomy in education policy.

Read more about congestion pricing in NYC