New York state officials are resisting demands from the Trump administration to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in public schools, claiming the federal agency lacks authority. In a recent letter, Deputy Commissioner Daniel Morton-Bentley highlighted the absence of federal or state laws mandating compliance with such demands, reiterating the state's commitment to equity principles. The Trump administration aims to ensure compliance with civil rights laws tied to federal funding, which represents a small percentage of overall education funding. This conflict underscores the tension between state education policies and federal directives.
We understand that the current administration seeks to censor anything it deems diversity, equity & inclusion,' he wrote. But there are no federal or State laws prohibiting the principles of DEI.
The Trump administration ordered K-12 schools nationwide to certify within 10 days that they are following federal civil rights laws and ending any discriminatory DEI practices.
Federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right, Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights, said in a statement when the demand was made.
State officials were unaware of any authority the federal Department of Education has to demand that states agree with its interpretation of court decisions.
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