The American Sociological Association (ASA) celebrates the August 14, 2025, federal court ruling that declared the Trump-Vance administration’s attempt to censor educational content and abandon student support programs unconstitutional.
U.S. District Court Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher ruled in favor of ASA and our coalition partners in American Federation of Teachers et al v. U.S. Department of Education et al, striking down the Department of Education’s February 14, 2025 “Dear Colleague Letter” and related certification requirements that threatened to withhold federal funding from institutions teaching critical history, sociology, and other lessons referencing race or providing diversity, equity, and inclusion programming.
“The American Sociological Association is delighted with this ruling,” said ASA President Adia Harvey Wingfield. “It affirms that we sociologists can still do the challenging yet rewarding work of asking and answering hard questions–about race, inequality, society, and more. Furthermore, today’s decision confirms that teachers across the nation can continue to support students, enrich academic institutions, and maybe most importantly, do the essential work of providing a nuanced, thoughtful education.”
The court found that both the letter and certification requirements violated constitutional rights and failed to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act. ASA joined the case alongside the American Federation of Teachers, AFT-Maryland, and Eugene School District 4J, represented by Democracy Forward.
“ASA will always stand with and for sociologists, but we are also proud to stand up for students, for free speech, and for all Americans’ right to an education unblemished by censorship, scare tactics, and threats,” Wingfield added.
For the full press release from Democracy Forward listing all coalition partners, click here.