Do No Harm and Defending Education File Federal Civil Rights Complaint Against Oregon Agencies for Racial Discrimination

May 28, 2026 - 23:32

Two advocacy groups have filed a federal civil rights complaint against Oregon state agencies, alleging racial discrimination in programs that receive federal funding. The complaint was submitted to the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights by Do No Harm and Defending Education.

The groups argue that the Oregon Department of Education and another unnamed state agency are violating federal law by operating programs that treat students differently based on race. According to the complaint, these programs or activities, which receive federal financial assistance, create separate tracks or opportunities for students depending on their racial background. The organizations claim this runs counter to the principle of equal treatment under the law.

Do No Harm, a group focused on medical ethics and education, and Defending Education, which advocates for colorblind policies in schools, have both previously challenged race-conscious initiatives in other states. Their complaint targets specific policies in Oregon that they say exclude or disadvantage students who do not belong to certain racial groups.

The Office for Civil Rights will now review the allegations. If it finds merit, the agency could launch an investigation or require changes to the programs in question. Oregon officials have not yet issued a public response to the filing.