Illinois Challenges Federal Directive to Freeze School Funding Over DEI Programs
Chicago, IL – The state of Illinois has initiated legal action against the Trump administration’s directive to freeze federal funding for schools that maintain Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Governor J.B. Pritzker, along with Attorney General Kwame Raoul, announced the lawsuit, emphasizing the potential adverse effects on educational institutions and students. (ibjonline.com)
The U.S. Department of Education’s recent order mandates that states certify compliance with federal antidiscrimination laws, specifically targeting what it deems "illegal DEI practices." Failure to comply could result in the withholding of federal education funds. This directive has been met with resistance from several Democratic-led states and cities, including New York, Minnesota, California, and Vermont, which argue that the order lacks legal basis and infringes upon state rights. (apnews.com)
In Illinois, the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) system, which relies on federal funding for approximately 16% of its budget, faces significant challenges due to this directive. CPS officials have expressed concerns that the freeze could jeopardize over $1 billion in federal support, potentially impacting educational programs and services for students. (axios.com)
Governor Pritzker criticized the federal government’s actions, stating, "The cuts to the Department of Human Services and the National Institute of Health are catastrophic for people and programs that provide lifesaving medical and scientific research." He further emphasized the importance of investing in America’s research and education sectors to maintain national competitiveness and support the next generation of scientists. (ibjonline.com)
The lawsuit seeks to prevent the enforcement of the funding freeze, arguing that it violates constitutional principles and undermines the quality of education in Illinois. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will have significant implications for the future of DEI programs and federal funding in educational institutions across the nation.
Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Parts of Trump’s Anti-DEI Executive Orders:
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