Education Dept. Sets Deadline for DEI Compliance

The U.S. Department of Education has issued a directive urging educational institutions to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, threatening the withdrawal of federal funding for non-compliance. This follows a Supreme Court decision that ruled against race-conscious admissions policies, which the Department is now broadly applying to all educational practices. Despite the February 28 deadline, many schools, including those in North Carolina, Washington, and California, are resisting immediate changes, citing the guidance's lack of legal mandate. The directive has faced legal challenges from organizations like the American Federation of Teachers, arguing it infringes on free speech rights. The University of Colorado Boulder and other institutions are reviewing the potential impacts, while some school districts continue to affirm their commitment to DEI initiatives. Meanwhile, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) maintain a strong focus on fostering community and economic mobility, highlighting the ongoing debate about the role of DEI in education.