LDF, representing the NAACP, argues that the government is attempting to reinterpret Civil Rights laws by focusing on a false threat of “reverse racism” against white students. The lawsuit alleges:
- Incorrect legal interpretations by the Ministry of Education.
- Threats of funding cuts to schools that continue DEI policies.
- Discrimination against Black students , with the aim of discouraging inclusionary practices that have proven beneficial.
The lawsuit was filed in Federal Court in Washington and is directed against Education Secretary Linda McMahon and senior administration officials.
🧠 Why it matters:
The government’s decision represents a sharp reversal of decades of progressive policies. According to the LDF, the threat of defunding undermines the ability of schools to provide truly inclusive educational programs.
“These attacks target basic education and seek to erase historical memory and pluralism,” said Katrina Feldkamp, legal advisor to the LDF.
📉 The social background:
The new policy comes at a time when public schools are being re-segregated , reaching levels seen in the 1960s. The average African-American student now attends a school with less than 25% white students , compared to just 7% in 1988 in so-called “intensively segregated schools.” Today, that number is nearly 20%.
Education experts warn that eliminating DEI programs could lead to increased dropout rates , reduced minority participation, and lower graduation rates.
