Court halts educational compliance with Trump's "Dear Colleague Letter

A federal court in Baltimore has issued a preliminary injunction that halts an attempt by the Trump administration to impose prosecution or cut federal funding on educational institutions that teach certain subjects referencing race and racism. The injunction stops schools from being required to comply with the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights' “Dear Colleague Letter,” which set an April 24, 2025, deadline for compliance certification.

The lawsuit was filed by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), AFT-Maryland, the American Sociological Association, and Eugene School District 4J. It is represented by Democracy Forward. AFT President Randi Weingarten commented on the decision, stating, “This is a huge win for students, families and educators.” She further criticized the letter as “a grave attack on students, our profession, honest history, and knowledge itself.”

Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, added that the ruling reveals the unlawfulness of the administration's attempts to censor educational content. “The nationwide injunction will pause at least part of the chaos the Trump administration is unleashing in classrooms and learning communities throughout the country," she said.

AFT Maryland President, Kenya Campbell, expressed that the court’s decision affirms the unlawful threats made against educators. “This preliminary injunction pauses the chaos caused by targeting and attacking vital communities,” she stated. Adia Harvey Wingfield, President of the American Sociological Association, emphasized the importance of educators having the ability to perform their roles effectively, noting the necessity of sociology in understanding societal dynamics.

Eugene School District 4J Board Chair, Jenny Jonak, remarked that the decision allows schools to maintain providing comprehensive education and student support. Jonak stated, “The Court’s order ensures that our public schools can continue to provide fair and equal access to public education for all our students.” The injunction temporarily halts choices between necessary student support and federal funding.

The injunction and amended complaint text can be accessed for further details.