A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking the enforcement of executive orders signed by President Donald Trump that sought to end government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson ruled that the orders likely violate constitutional rights, including free speech protections, and prevented the administration from altering federal contracts related to equity.
The executive orders, signed on Trump’s first day in office, aimed to eliminate equity-related grants and required federal contractors to refrain from promoting DEI initiatives.
Plaintiffs, including the City of Baltimore and several higher education groups, argued that the orders were unconstitutional and restricted free speech.
Judge Abelson agreed with the plaintiffs, ruling that the executive orders discouraged support for DEI initiatives and imposed unconstitutional limitations on federally funded programs.
While the ruling permits the government to investigate DEI practices, it blocks the administration from enforcing restrictions against DEI-related contracts and grants.
Critics of DEI programs argue that such initiatives undermine merit-based systems, while supporters contend that they are essential for addressing systemic racism and ensuring equitable opportunities for diverse communities.
The plaintiffs further claim that the executive orders create harm through vague language and arbitrary enforcement, leading to uncertainty among organizations that rely on federal funding for equity-related initiatives.
The ruling represents a significant legal setback for the administration’s efforts to dismantle DEI programs at the federal level.
