Public Schools Reject Trump’s Order

New York state officials are defying the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate divisive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools—despite warnings that billions in federal funding could be on the chopping block.

In a bold response to the U.S. Department of Education, New York’s Education Department declared it would not end DEI initiatives, even as the federal government threatens to revoke key funding streams. DEI programs, which critics say promote race-based preferences and ideological agendas, are under increasing national scrutiny.

Federal Education Funding at Risk Over DEI Dispute

A letter sent Friday by Daniel Morton-Bentley, legal counsel and deputy commissioner at NYSED, openly challenged the administration’s position. He claimed there is “no federal or state law” banning DEI programs, and argued that the Department of Education lacks legal grounds to withdraw funding.

But the Trump administration sees things differently.

In a recent memo, acting assistant secretary for civil rights Craig Trainor reminded states that “federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right,” and warned that funding could be pulled from school systems that continue discriminatory DEI practices. This includes vital Title I funds, which support low-income school districts.

Federal funding makes up about 6% of New York’s K–12 education budget—more than $2.2 billion in New York City alone. That funding now hangs in the balance.

Trump Admin Targets Race-Based Education Programs

The move comes just months after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions, declaring that race-based decision-making violates the Constitution. The Trump administration is now applying that principle across all public education sectors.

In the memo, officials noted that many DEI programs may be violating federal civil rights laws by “discriminating against one group of Americans to benefit another.”

Despite these concerns, New York officials insist they will stay the course. Morton-Bentley said the Education Department has already certified compliance with Title VI, and will not submit further documentation.

He wrote, “NYSED has already provided assurances that it is and will remain in compliance with Title VI. Therefore, no additional certification will be issued.”

Democrats Defend DEI, Despite National Backlash

While many Americans are raising concerns about ideological influence in schools, Democrats in Congress are doubling down on support for DEI programs. In a letter sent earlier this year, left-leaning lawmakers urged the Department of Education to stop pressuring schools to abandon these initiatives.

They claim DEI efforts are meant to “level the playing field” and correct “centuries of inequity and exclusion.”

But critics argue that such programs often go too far—prioritizing group identity over individual merit and fueling resentment among students, parents, and teachers alike.

The Bigger Picture: What’s at Stake for America’s Classrooms?

This showdown isn’t just about one state—it’s about the direction of American education. As President Trump continues to fight for fairness and equal opportunity in schools, the outcome of this battle could reshape how local districts handle race, politics, and federal funding for years to come.

👉 What do you think? Should taxpayer money fund DEI programs in public schools?