States need to reject Trump's DEI in schools order, defend equity initiatives in school

Trump's order demanding certification that diversity, equity and inclusion practices do not violate civil rights laws is a blatant overstep of federal authority. This vague directive lacks any legal basis and threatens to withhold crucial education funding in an unconscionable attempt to bully states into complying. However, education leaders in states like Oregon, Colorado, Michigan, Washington, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Vermont, Wisconsin, and New York have already vowed to defy the order and continue their DEI programs. We must follow their lead and unequivocally reject these empty threats while affirming our commitment to cultivating inclusive school environments that embrace diversity. Decades of research overwhelmingly demonstrate that DEI initiatives improve outcomes for all students by fostering understanding, respect and a sense of belonging. Abandoning such efforts would be an injustice to our children and a major step backwards for public education. I urge you to stand united against this illegal federal overreach and defend our state's right to promote the values of equity and inclusion that are vital to student success. We cannot allow this administration's regressive, discriminatory agenda to jeopardize the quality of our schools or compromise our core principles. Protecting DEI is protecting our students' future.