Ellison, Trump administration settle DEI education lawsuit

February 9, 2026 - 03:42

The state of Minnesota has successfully resolved a federal lawsuit, ensuring the continued flow of significant education funds without dismantling its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The agreement concludes a legal challenge initiated during the previous presidential administration, which had alleged that certain state equity training programs were discriminatory.

Under the settlement, Minnesota will receive approximately $530 million in crucial federal funding for its K-12 schools. This financial support is vital for ongoing educational operations and resources across the state. Importantly, the resolution allows Minnesota to maintain its commitment to DEI initiatives within its educator training frameworks.

State officials have hailed the outcome as a affirmation of their ability to pursue equitable education practices while remaining in compliance with federal guidelines. The settlement avoids a protracted court battle and provides clarity for school districts, allowing educators to focus on supporting all students. The state maintains that its professional development programs are designed to foster inclusive learning environments and address opportunity gaps, objectives that will continue under this new agreement. The finalized terms provide stability for the state's educational planning and budget processes moving forward.