U.S. schools and universities are under a two-week deadline imposed by the Trump administration to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives or risk losing federal funds, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. The Department of Education on Friday announced the ultimatum in a memo that directed schools to stop using “racial preferences” as a factor in admissions, financial aid, hiring, and other areas.
The memo described the move as a correction of rampant discrimination in education, often against Asian and white students, and schools are being given 14 days to end any practice that treats students or employees differently due to their race.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison and other UW schools are reportedly reviewing the guidance. John Lucas, a UW–Madison spokesperson, said the university remains “committed to a campus environment that values diversity in both background and viewpoint, and fosters inclusion and belonging for all students, faculty, and staff.”
The memo has drawn backlash from civil rights and university groups.
