A federal judge has temporarily blocked key directives from the Trump administration that aimed to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal agencies.
The ruling prevents the government from freezing or canceling "equity-related" contracts and from requiring grant recipients to certify they do not promote DEI. Additionally, the judge barred the government from enforcing any False Claims Act actions linked to these anti-DEI certifications.
You may like to read - Tesla recalls 380,000 vehicles in the us over power steering assist failure.
Ruling on Likely Unconstitutionality
US District Judge Adam Abelson, in his preliminary injunction, stated that the directives were likely unconstitutional.
His order applies nationwide, ruling that the provisions were content- and viewpoint-based restrictions that could inhibit free speech.
Abelson emphasized that the government's actions would unfairly target anyone involved in discussions or initiatives related to “equity,” “diversity,” or “DEI.”
Background of the Case
This case centers on an executive order signed by former President Trump on Inauguration Day, which mandated federal agencies to terminate or cancel any contracts or grants linked to DEI initiatives.
The City of Baltimore, two education associations, and a restaurant association filed the lawsuit, arguing that the order infringed upon congressional power over government spending and violated constitutional free speech protections.
Legal Proceedings and Government's Defense
At a Wednesday hearing, Justice Department attorney Pardis Gheibi was unable to define “equity-related” when questioned by the judge.
The plaintiffs argued that the vague language of the executive order was intentionally designed to discourage DEI programs in general. Judge Abelson questioned whether the lack of clarity was “a feature, not a bug,” of the Trump administration's approach.
Response from the Challengers
In response to the ruling, Skye Perryman, president and CEO of Democracy Forward, which is representing the challengers, expressed gratitude for the court’s decision.
Perryman stressed that the court’s pause on the executive orders was a step toward upholding constitutional protections, stating, “In the United States, there is no King.”
Thanks.
Written By HowNHowTo.com