As the Trump administration’s deadline to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs approaches, schools and colleges across the U.S. are largely resisting immediate changes.
The administration warned institutions that failure to comply could result in a loss of federal funding, yet many schools argue they are still following federal law and see no need for adjustments.
Officials in Democratic-led states such as Washington, California, and New York have assured schools that the directive does not change existing federal law, urging them not to rush into dismantling DEI initiatives. Some higher education leaders, including those at Antioch University and Western Michigan University, have dismissed the memo outright, stating they will continue business as usual unless legally compelled to act.
The memo, issued on February 14 as a “Dear Colleague Letter,” orders schools to eliminate practices that differentiate based on race, including classroom discussions on racism, targeted student recruitment efforts, and voluntary cultural student organizations. Critics argue the directive is a political move designed to instill fear rather than enact immediate policy changes.
While the threat of losing federal funding is serious, past cases suggest that enforcing such a penalty is complex and slow-moving. The Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights, already operating with reduced staff, oversees more than 18,000 school districts and 6,000 colleges. Civil rights investigations can take years to resolve—recent cases under the Biden administration, such as Michigan’s dispute over special education rights, have yet to reach a conclusion.
Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, advises colleges to remain calm, stating, “There’s nothing to act on until we see the administration or its agencies try to stop something.” Former education official Catherine Lhamon echoed this sentiment, urging schools to uphold inclusive policies despite political pressure.
Despite broad resistance, a few schools are preparing for potential fallout. The University of Cincinnati is reviewing DEI-related jobs and removing references to DEI from its website. In Colorado, Colorado State University Chancellor Tony Frank acknowledged opposition to the memo but urged compliance to avoid risking funding for students and staff.
Education leaders in conservative states have welcomed the Trump administration’s guidance. Alabama Superintendent Eric G. Mackey stated that the directive aligns with the state’s existing policies and should not disrupt operations. The memo claims DEI initiatives have unfairly disadvantaged white and Asian American students, reinforcing the administration’s push to end race-conscious policies.
With the deadline arriving this Friday, schools face a choice: stand firm against the directive and risk legal battles or begin dismantling DEI programs preemptively. Since no immediate funding cuts are likely, many institutions appear willing to wait and see how enforcement unfolds. The ultimate impact of the memo may depend on political and legal challenges in the months ahead.