Federal Judge Strikes Down Trump Administration's Anti-DEI Education Policy
A federal judge blocked the Trump administration's policy to terminate millions of dollars in diversity, equity, and inclusion grants to schools. The ruling upheld challenges from eight Democratic-led states, finding the policy lacked clear criteria and failed to consider impacts on affected communities.
Judicial Reversal of Education Policy
A federal judge on Thursday struck down a policy that was adopted early in US President Donald Trump's administration that required the US Department of Education to terminate millions of dollars in grants funding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. US District Judge Angel Kelley in Boston ruled in favor of eight Democratic-led states that had continued to challenge the Education Department policy.
Constitutional and Procedural Flaws
The judge said the policy provided no discernible criteria for what programs would be considered "DEI" and disfavored for funding. The department also failed to consider how canceling the grants would impact those who relied upon the funding.
Historical Context
The ruling is notable because the US Supreme Court in April 2025 allowed the administration to proceed with terminating the teacher training grants. However, Judge Kelley distinguished this case by finding procedural failures in how the broader policy was implemented across the department.
Education Sector Impact
The decision marks a significant setback for a centerpiece of the Trump administration's efforts to reduce what it views as "woke" policies in education. The judge's reasoning suggests that federal agencies must follow proper administrative procedures, including impact assessments, even when pursuing ideological policy goals.