AG James, AG Raoul, and AG Campbell led a coalition of 15 attorneys general in issuing guidance to K-12 schools, colleges, and universities outlining the benefits, legality, and importance of common diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) policies and practices in education. The guidance comes in response to concerns expressed by some educational institutions following an executive order and a U.S. Department of Education (DOE) "Dear Colleague” letter threatening schools that continue to uphold DEIA policies and programming. In the guidance issued today, Attorney General James and the coalition remind educational institutions and entities that their lawful efforts to seek and support diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible educational experiences cannot be rendered illegal by an executive order or a letter from DOE – neither of which can make or change the law.

"The administration cannot ban diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts with a ‘Dear Colleague’ letter. Schools and educational institutions can rest assured that they are well within their legal rights to continue building inclusive learning environments for their students. My office will always stand up for the rule of law and defend New Yorkers from threats." – AG James