Cause of action for civil rights violations.

Prohibits a governmental entity (entity), including a state educational institution (institution), from discriminating against persons: (1) over the exercise of rights provided or protected by the Constitution of the United States; or (2) by granting preferential treatment to any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in the operation of public employment, public education, or public contracting. Specifies certain exemptions. Provides that prohibited discrimination may be asserted as a claim or defense in a judicial or administrative proceeding regardless of whether the relevant entity or institution is a party to the proceeding. Provides that, if the relevant entity or institution is not a party to a proceeding, the relevant entity or institution has an unconditional right to intervene in order to respond to an action or claim alleging discrimination. Specifies certain awards and remedies. Defines certain terms.