New York State Education Department Pushes Back Against Trump’s DEI Funding Cuts in Schools

New York State Education Department Pushes Back Against Trump’s DEI Funding Cuts in Schools

The New York State Education Department has declared its intent to confront the Trump administration’s recent initiatives aimed at eliminating funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion, also known as DEI. This contentious move is framed as a requirement for schools to qualify for other federal funding.

Recently, the Trump administration announced significant reductions in DEI grants offered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services as part of a broader initiative under the Department of Government Efficiency. This initiative aims to eliminate perceived waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.

JP O’Hare, a spokesperson for the New York State Education Department, emphasized the state’s commitment to compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. He stated that the department has consistently confirmed its adherence to this law on numerous occasions.

O’Hare further articulated that since the U.S. Department of Education already possesses guarantees from the New York State Education Department, they will not be providing further certification. He added that the Board of Regents alongside the State Education Department continues to collaborate with schools across New York to enhance equity, access, and educational opportunities for all students.

On Friday, The New York Times reported a letter from Daniel Morton-Bentley, deputy commissioner for legal affairs at the New York State Education Department. He expressed awareness that the current administration appears eager to suppress any initiative classified as diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The letter notably clarified that no federal or state laws currently exist that prohibit the principles underpinning DEI initiatives. The Times characterized New York’s resolute stance as a stark contrast to the approaches adopted by other states in dealing with similar challenges.

In a recent announcement, the Trump administration has mandated compliance from schools nationwide with federal civil rights laws, including Title VI. This requirement aligns with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling regarding affirmative action, which adds another layer of scrutiny to these educational policies.

Accompanying these developments, the administration aims to enforce significant changes in the Department of Education, which includes the dismantling of previous executive orders concerning DEI.

The implications of the Trump administration’s demands are significant, particularly as they correspond with a turbulent period for educational institutions in the United States. Many schools face the threat of losing critical funding, pending their adherence to the administration’s new policies.

For instance, Brown University reportedly encountered more than $500 million in federal funding cuts as a result of its reaction to anti-Israel protests on its campus. Similarly, Columbia University faced restrictions exceeding $400 million due to its handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

The New York Education Department’s announcement of its ongoing compliance with existing laws, despite federal requirements, underscores the complexity of the current educational climate. Importantly, many educators and administrators across New York are navigating these challenges while striving to maintain their commitment to fostering inclusive environments.

The White House has not yet responded to inquiries regarding this matter.

This report includes contributions from Andrew Mark Miller of Fox News.