A federal lawsuit in Maryland challenges a Trump administration memo requiring schools and universities to eliminate “race-based” practices within two weeks or risk losing federal funding. Filed by the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association, the lawsuit argues that the memo violates the First and Fifth Amendments by restricting free speech and being overly vague.

The memo, known as a Dear Colleague Letter, mandates the cessation of practices that discriminate based on race by this Friday, citing a Supreme Court decision on race in college admissions. The administration aims to combat discrimination, particularly against white and Asian American students, by broadening the application of the Supreme Court ruling to all aspects of education.

Critics, including the lawsuit, contend that the memo is overly broad and infringes on educational practices essential for teaching subjects like U.S. history. They argue that the memo could impact diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, potentially banning student groups based on race and altering college admissions practices beyond the scope of the Supreme Court decision.

The lawsuit seeks to halt the enforcement of the memo and have it invalidated. The American Federation of Teachers and the sociological association, representing educators and scholars, fear that their teaching and student organizations could jeopardize federal funding under the memo. The lawsuit highlights the potential impact on educational freedom and diversity initiatives within schools and universities.