Starting in January 2026, nearly 40% of the Hispanic student population in Broward, Florida, may no longer have access to the Latinos In Action (LIA) Program, which aims to offer students extracurricular classes and clubs to prepare them for their professional future.

The ban comes from the United States Department of Education, which recently notified the Broward School District in Florida (BCPS) to eliminate the Latinos in Action program in its middle schools, high schools, and educational centers.

The demand by the highest educational authority marks a severe blow to inclusion and student preparation initiatives among Hispanic youth residing in the state; However, the notification comes with a warning to the county detailing that failure to comply with the request could result in the loss of a $30 million federal grant from the Magnet Schools Assistance Program.

Although Latinos in Action began as a small project, it currently has programs in 16 states across the country and more than 500 schools; However, officials from the Office of Civil Rights have described the courses as “discriminatory” and are calling for the cancellation of classes and programs for the upcoming semesters.

In addition, the Department of Education has ordered all other universities and school districts to suspend all diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

The Broward School District in Florida stated in a statement that “this change will not diminish our commitment to all of our students. The District will continue to provide enrichment opportunities, leadership development, and pathways that prepare each student for success in college, career, and the community. We understand that this transition may raise questions, and we are committed to keeping you informed,” it emphasized.