Nineteen states, led by Democratic attorneys general, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's directive aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools, which they argue is an illegal threat to cut federal funding. These states assert that DEI initiatives are essential for fostering safe and inclusive educational environments and that the administration's actions are both unlawful and detrimental to students and schools. The lawsuit seeks to prevent the Department of Education from enforcing its April 3 directive, which mandates states to certify compliance with civil rights laws by rejecting so-called 'illegal DEI practices', or face a cut in federal funding. The plaintiffs emphasize the risk of losing over $13.8 billion in crucial funding, especially for vulnerable student populations, if they do not comply with what they deem an unconstitutional directive. The lawsuit follows recent judicial rulings in related cases across three states, which have challenged the administration's guidance as vague and limiting academic freedom.

Nineteen states are challenging the Trump administration's directive to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in public schools, viewing it as an illegal move to cut federal funding.

The lawsuit, filed in Massachusetts by Democratic attorneys general, seeks to block the Department of Education from withholding funds based on a directive requiring states to certify their compliance with civil rights laws by rejecting 'illegal DEI practices'.

Plaintiffs argue that DEI initiatives are legal and essential for creating supportive educational environments, and the administration's threats to withhold funding are both unlawful and harmful.

The lawsuit highlights the risk of losing over $13.8 billion in federal funding, which supports vulnerable student populations, if states do not comply with the directive.

Recent rulings in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and New Hampshire have already challenged the administration's guidance, citing its vagueness and potential to infringe on academic freedom.

The directive requires states to gather signatures from local school systems certifying compliance by April 24, a demand that the plaintiffs have refused, choosing instead to stand by their prior certifications.

Linda McMahon, Trump's education secretary, has indicated that non-compliance with the directive could result in funding cuts, emphasizing the necessity of the certification forms to prevent discrimination in schools.