A federal court has issued a nationwide preliminary injunction blocking key provisions of executive orders signed by President Donald Trump that sought to curb DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives. The ruling, delivered by Judge Adam Abelson of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, found that the orders likely violate free speech protections and overstep presidential authority.
The lawsuit, led by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) alongside other plaintiffs, challenged the executive orders on constitutional grounds. The orders mandated the termination of all federal funding for DEI-related programs and required contractors to certify they did not engage in such initiatives. Plaintiffs argued that the orders had a chilling effect on speech and disrupted efforts to foster inclusive workplaces and educational institutions.
The court’s injunction specifically prohibits the Trump administration from pausing, freezing, or canceling current federal contracts and grants based on DEI considerations. Additionally, the ruling bars the enforcement of requirements that grantees and contractors certify their non-participation in DEI initiatives and prevents federal agencies from pursuing enforcement actions under the orders.
Judge Abelson stated in his ruling that “Ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion has long been a goal, and at least in some contexts arguably a requirement, of federal anti-discrimination law.” The court further emphasized that the broad and vague language of the executive orders made compliance difficult and deterred organizations from engaging in lawful DEI efforts.
The decision was welcomed by diversity advocates, who viewed it as a major victory in protecting initiatives aimed at increasing representation and equity in education and the workforce. Paulette Granberry Russell, president and CEO of NADOHE, credited members who shared their experiences with the court, stating that their input was instrumental in demonstrating the harm caused by the executive orders.
While the injunction temporarily halts enforcement, the legal battle over the executive orders is expected to continue, with the Trump administration likely to appeal. The ruling does not prevent other legal challenges to DEI programs, leaving the broader debate over diversity policies unresolved.
