On July 31, 2025, a significant legal battle has emerged that could impact the future of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) across the nation. The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), in collaboration with the civil rights organization LatinoJustice PRLDEF, has stepped forward to file a motion to intervene in a lawsuit that challenges the very foundation of HSIs.
This lawsuit, initiated by the state of Tennessee alongside the advocacy group Students for Fair Admissions, targets the U.S. Department of Education. The plaintiffs argue that the federal designation for HSIs, which mandates a minimum of 25 percent Latino enrollment, is discriminatory and unconstitutional. This case echoes previous high-profile lawsuits against prestigious universities, which have led to significant changes in college admissions policies nationwide.
In its motion, HACU asserts the necessity of its involvement in the lawsuit to defend the constitutionality of the HSI designation. The organization expresses concern that the Department of Education may not adequately protect the interests of HSIs, especially during a time when the department is undergoing significant changes and challenges.
Antonio R. Flores, the president and CEO of HACU, emphasized the importance of HSIs in his statement, noting that the lawsuit threatens decades of advocacy that led to the federal recognition of HSIs in 1992. He stated, “The HSI program serves as a crucial driver of educational excellence and workforce readiness, providing opportunities for millions of students from diverse backgrounds across the country.”
HACU’s commitment to defending the policies and resources essential for HSIs is clear, as they aim to support the education of approximately 5.6 million students nationwide. The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the future of educational equity and access for Latino students and other underrepresented groups.