Nineteen U
S. states have opposed the decision of the Donald Trump administration regarding the possible termination of funding for schools that actively implement Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This extensive action was formulated as an official lawsuit filed in court and served as a response to the government's attempts to restrict or even halt funding for educational institutions striving to make them more open and supportive of various social groups. The coalition of 19 states, led by California, New York, Illinois, Minnesota, and Massachusetts, expressed deep concern about the Trump administration's policies, noting that their actions violate the country's constitutional norms and pose a threat to the stability of the American educational system. According to the plaintiffs' representatives, the actions of the Department of Education are unconstitutional and appear aimed at pressuring and discriminating against institutions seeking to implement programs grounded in principles of equality and inclusion. According to the lawsuit documents, the current administration plans to restrict or cancel funding exceeding $18.7 billion. For example, California receives approximately eight billion dollars annually in federal funds, and New York receives over three billion. These funds primarily support programs for students from low-income families and provide special educational services for children with special needs. This financial flow has allowed hundreds of schools to successfully carry out inclusive initiatives and ensure access to quality education for a broader range of children. New York Attorney General Letitia James explicitly stated that the lawsuit is filed to protect the community from "another attack" by the Trump administration. “We will not allow our schools and children to become targets through political games. Our educational institutions must remain spaces for all, regardless of social background or status,” she emphasized. Leaders of other states who joined the lawsuit expressed similar views regarding the unconstitutional nature of the administration's requirements. Specifically, the lawsuit notes that the U.S. government has not established clear criteria or rules for punishing or banning certain programs based on DEI principles. Another important aspect they highlight is that calling diversity and equality programs "discriminatory" is illogical and unfounded, as these initiatives contribute to creating a fair and equal educational system. California Attorney General Rob Bonta pointed out that such statements reflect Trump’s political intentions to dismantle the U.S. education system and revert to old, discriminatory practices. This conflict has become one of the most heated points in the debate over educational reform in America. State representatives emphasize that every student has the right to equal access to education, and federal support from the budget helps ensure this opportunity for the most vulnerable populations. Therefore, any attempts to restrict or eliminate such programs are viewed as violations of children’s rights and misuse of government power. Amid this conflict, suspicions have arisen that the new administration’s policy may not only aim to change the educational course but also serve political consolidation, as restrictions on DEI are seen as reflecting a more rigid and conservative approach toward issues of equality and diversity in the U.S. Conversely, opponents argue that these initiatives are not forms of discrimination but rather tools to combat existing inequalities and provide every child with equal opportunities for self-realization. Overall, the lawsuit is gaining momentum and is likely to become a key test for the future of educational policy in the United States, serving as a signal to other countries aiming for more inclusive and equitable educational systems. While the final ruling has yet to be issued, this situation clearly demonstrates how politics and law can be at the center of a sharp conflict over the future of American education and citizen equality.