Trump Administration Supports Legal Challenge to LA School Diversity Program
The Department of Justice under Attorney General Pam Bondi has moved to intervene in a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Unified School District, alleging that its long-standing program to combat segregation discriminates against white students. This legal action, initiated by the conservative 1776 Project Foundation, claims the district's policies violate constitutional guarantees of racial equality.
Background of the Controversial Program
For decades, LAUSD has classified schools based on the proportion of non-white students, using a designation known as PHBAO (Predominantly Hispanic, Black, Asian, or Other). In a city where over two-thirds of residents identify as Hispanic, Black, or Asian, this has resulted in most schools receiving this classification. PHBAO schools benefit from smaller class sizes, with a maximum of 25 students per teacher compared to an average of 34.5 in non-PHBAO schools, and additional resources like mandatory parent-teacher conferences.
Arguments from Both Sides
The 1776 Project Foundation argues that what began as a temporary measure to address segregation has evolved into a system of racial favoritism. "These policies are not just unfair – they're unconstitutional," stated Aiden Buzzetti, the foundation's president. The DOJ echoed this sentiment, with Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon asserting that racial classification for educational benefits is unlawful and un-American.
In response, LAUSD school board member Tanya Ortiz Franklin defended the program, emphasizing that investing in historically underserved students fulfills the promise of public education. The district, educating nearly 377,000 students with 73% Latino, 7% Black, 3.5% Asian, and 10% white demographics, maintains its commitment to equal access but declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.
Broader Context and Expert Insights
Dr. Tyrone Howard, a UCLA education professor, noted that this lawsuit mirrors other challenges by conservative groups, particularly following the Supreme Court's 2023 decision to end race-conscious admissions in higher education. He criticized the argument of reverse discrimination in a majority-minority district like Los Angeles, where predominantly white schools are not underserved.
The legal battle also draws parallels to a 2023 case in Virginia targeting a program for Black students, which LAUSD later overhauled to be race-neutral. Howard highlighted that such programs have shown positive outcomes, including improved attendance and academic engagement for minority students, yet face opposition from activists who claim they create unfair advantages.
Implications and Future Outlook
This case is part of a growing trend of lawsuits against race-based educational initiatives, with conservative activist Edward Blum expressing confidence in a favorable ruling for the plaintiffs. However, critics warn that eliminating these programs could harm students of color and undermine efforts to address historical inequities. As the courts deliberate, the outcome may set a significant precedent for diversity policies in public education across the United States.
