Important Update on Department of Education’s February 14 Letter

Dear Colleagues, 

I want to update you on the February 14, 2025, "Dear Colleague" letter from the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. Our District is aware of this development and will continue our essential work in student success, transfer preparation, and workforce development. 

The Department's letter suggests that policies promoting racial diversity may violate federal law, including policies considered race-neutral if they use "proxies or indirect means" to advance diversity. While the letter mentions a potential loss of federal funding for noncompliance, it's crucial for our faculty and staff to understand that this letter does not change existing law nor carry legal force. It simply represents the Department's current interpretation, which will be subject to judicial review. 

For our day-to-day operations, you should know that LACCD will continue adhering to all applicable state and federal laws. The California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office and the State Attorney General's Office are actively working with state and federal partners to provide further guidance. Attorney General Bonta has specifically confirmed that our DEIA initiatives remain legally permissible when properly structured. 

At this time, there should be no disruption to our federal funding. For those seeking more information, the Community College League of California will host a webinar on Wednesday, February 26, at 9:00 a.m.  

Please continue your important work supporting our students while following our existing policies and procedures. We will provide updates as we receive additional guidance from state and federal authorities. 

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our students and our communities’ mission.

Dr. Alberto J. Román 
Interim Chancellor