Bye bye D.E.I.
A federal appeals court has recently overruled a previous decision blocking President Donald Trump’s executive orders aimed at dismantling federal support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The three-judge panel from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Trump’s orders can be enforced while a lawsuit continues, reversing a nationwide injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson in Baltimore.
Judge Abelson, who was appointed by President Biden, had previously determined that the orders violated the First Amendment by infringing on free speech and that they were unconstitutionally vague. The plaintiffs in the case, which included the City of Baltimore and several national organizations like the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, argued that the executive orders were an overreach of presidential power and a direct threat to free expression. They claimed that the president’s actions were an attack on their right to promote diversity initiatives.
In a critical move, two of the judges on the appeals court panel agreed that the executive orders raised concerns about free speech, but ultimately decided that the lower court’s decision to block the orders was excessive. They concluded that the broad injunction was unjustified.
The orders themselves call for the elimination of federal funding for “equity-related” grants and contracts and require federal contractors to certify that they do not promote DEI. The Trump administration has defended the measures, arguing that the ban only affects DEI programs that are in violation of federal civil rights laws.
While President Trump has secured a legal victory, a separate lawsuit challenging the executive orders is still ongoing in Washington, D.C. This continued legal battle highlights the deep division in the country over DEI programs, with those on the left fiercely opposing any moves to roll them back. As White House spokesperson Harrison Fields pointed out, the American people have clearly shown their support for Trump’s agenda, and it is time for critics to align with the will of the people or risk being left behind.