Louisiana affirms compliance with federal antidiscrimination laws in education

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley has formalized the state's opposition to discriminatory practices in K-12 schools. He signed a U.S. Department of Education assurance certifying Louisiana's compliance with federal antidiscrimination laws.

"My signature affirms Louisiana’s commitment to equal opportunity for all students to access an education free from discrimination," said Dr. Brumley. "Schools were ordained to be academic institutions that pursue excellence. Louisiana is focused on merit and continuing our historic academic progress."

This month, the U.S. Department of Education asked states to certify adherence to federal antidiscrimination requirements to qualify for continued federal funding. The certification upholds Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the principles from the Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard decision.

Louisiana took significant steps to ensure compliance by certifying full adherence to federal antidiscrimination law, collecting assurances from all school systems, conditioning the release of $37 million in federal funds on compliance affirmation, and issuing guidance to schools.

Further actions against discriminatory practices included a letter from Dr. Brumley advising against diversity, equity, and inclusion practices that violate civil rights law, support for Governor Jeff Landry's order against using critical race theory in K-12 education, and opposing the Biden administration’s Title IX expansion to include gender identity. The Louisiana Department of Education also participated in a lawsuit against perceived federal overreach.

Dr. Brumley's endorsement meets the U.S. Department of Education's requirement for continued federal financial assistance. For more details, refer to the U.S. Department of Education's various informational resources.