PORTLAND, Oregon — The U.S. Department of Education has opened a civil rights investigation into Portland Public Schools following allegations that the district engaged in unlawful racial discrimination by establishing a Center for Black Student Excellence.
The inquiry stems from a December complaint filed by Defending Education, a conservative nonprofit organization that challenges diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The complaint alleges the district violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Constitution’s equal protection clause by directing significant funding toward a race-focused initiative.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon confirmed the investigation in a statement, writing that “discrimination disguised as ‘equity’ is discrimination.” The complaint asks federal officials to review the district’s decision to purchase a $16 million building and invest up to $25 million more to create a hub offering enrichment programs aimed at improving outcomes for Black students.
Portland Public Schools has previously stated that the center will not exclude students of other backgrounds and is intended to address longstanding disparities while supporting all students. The project, approved by voters as part of a $1.2 billion bond measure in 2020, is planned for North Portland’s Albina neighborhood and is expected to open within two to three years.
The investigation comes as federal officials signal increased scrutiny of publicly funded DEI initiatives.
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