Representational (The New York Times photo)

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT), one of the largest teachers union in the US, has filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Education (DoE), contesting a recent directive that eliminates race-based considerations in schools. The lawsuit, which also includes the American Sociological Association and AFT’s Maryland affiliate as plaintiffs, was filed in a federal district court in Maryland on Tuesday.
The legal challenge targets a February 14 memo from the Education Department, which mandates the removal of practically all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in K-12 and higher education institutions. The union argues that this policy is unconstitutional and will have severe consequences for students and educators, according to a report by CourthouseNews.

The impact of the policy shift

The Trump administration’s directive would withhold federal funds from schools that incorporate lessons on systemic racism and other DEI topics. The move aligns with broader efforts by the administration and its Republican allies to dismantle DEI programs across federal agencies and the private sector.
While supporters of the directive claim that DEI initiatives undermine merit-based systems and discriminate against white individuals and men, rights organizations argue that such programs address historic inequities and promote inclusive educational environments. The lawsuit states that banning DEI programs will restrict access to diverse educational resources, hinder students’ critical thinking development, and negatively affect their understanding of different cultural perspectives.

Constitutional concerns and educators’ rights

The AFT’s lawsuit asserts that the Education Department’s directive violates First Amendment protections by restricting educators’ ability to teach freely and by limiting students’ right to associate with groups based on race or national origin.
“This vague and clearly unconstitutional memo is a grave attack on students, our profession, and knowledge itself,” AFT President Randi Weingarten stated in response to the lawsuit. “It would hamper efforts to extend access to education and dash the promise of equal opportunity for all, a central tenet of the United States since its founding.”
Legal precedent, the plaintiffs argue, prohibits government officials from suppressing First Amendment rights of federal fund recipients. By enforcing this directive, the DoE would impose undue restrictions on what can be taught in classrooms and limit discussions on racial issues, which the lawsuit contends is a direct violation of constitutional freedoms.

Broader legal and political context

This lawsuit adds to the growing legal battles against the Trump administration’s push to dismantle DEI policies across multiple sectors. A separate federal court case in Maryland recently resulted in a temporary block against White House-imposed DEI bans within federal agencies and businesses that contract with the government.
The AFT is seeking an urgent injunction to prevent the Education Department’s policy from taking effect, especially as schools near the administration’s Friday deadline for compliance. Without intervention, the directive could lead to significant disruptions in educational institutions nationwide.

Awaiting federal response

The White House and the Department of Education have yet to respond to the lawsuit. However, with multiple legal challenges underway, the administration may face mounting pressure to justify its stance on race-related policies in education.
As the legal battle unfolds, educators, students, and advocacy groups await a judicial ruling that could determine the future of DEI programs in American schools. The case underscores the ongoing national debate over how history, race, and systemic inequality should be addressed in educational settings.