The University of Massachusetts Office of the General Counsel (OGC) issued the following statement on February 23, 2025.

On February 14, 2025, the United States Department of Education (USDOE) issued a Dear Colleague letter, which described certain diversity, equity, and inclusion activities it may address further, provided its own interpretation of the United States Supreme Court’s holding in the SFFA cases, and provided its own perspective of certain current federal law.  Importantly, the letter stated that “[t]his guidance does not have the force and effect of law and does not bind the public or create new legal standards.” The letter did, however, reiterate that institutions should “ensure that their policies and actions comply with existing civil rights law” or risk the possible loss of certain federal funding. 

While the letter and its commentary have caused concern and confusion, federal and state antidiscrimination and civil rights laws have not changed. The University has always committed to following the law and will continue to do so.

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