Appeals Court Lifts Block on Executive Orders Targeting Diversity Programs
WASHINGTON — An appeals court on Friday lifted a block on executive orders seeking to end government support for diversity, equity and inclusion programs, handing the Trump administration a win after a string of setbacks defending President Donald Trump’s agenda from dozens of lawsuits.
The decision from a three-judge panel allows the orders to be enforced as a lawsuit challenging them plays out. The appeals court judges halted a nationwide injunction from U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson in Baltimore.
Background of the Case
Two of the judges on the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals wrote that Trump’s anti-DEI push could eventually raise concerns about First Amendment rights but said the judge’s sweeping block went too far.
“My vote should not be understood as agreement with the orders’ attack on efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion,” Judge Pamela Harris wrote. Two of the panel’s members were appointed by President Barack Obama, while the third was appointed by Trump.
What Led to the Lawsuit
Abelson had found the orders likely violated free-speech rights and are unconstitutionally vague since they don’t have a specific definition of DEI.
Trump signed an order his first day in office directing federal agencies to terminate all “equity-related” grants or contracts. He signed a follow-up order requiring federal contractors to certify that they don’t promote DEI.
The city of Baltimore and other groups sued the Trump administration, arguing the executive orders are an unconstitutional overreach of presidential authority.
Arguments from Both Sides
The Justice Department has argued that the president was targeting only DEI programs that violate federal civil rights laws. Government attorneys said the administration should be able to align federal spending with the president’s priorities.
Abelson, who was nominated by Democratic President Joe Biden, agreed with the plaintiffs that the executive orders discourage businesses, organizations and public entities from openly supporting diversity, equity and inclusion.
Purpose and Impact of DEI Programs
Efforts to increase diversity long have been under attack by Republicans who contend the measures threaten merit-based hiring, promotion and educational opportunities for white people. Supporters say the programs help institutions meet the needs of increasingly diverse populations while addressing the lasting impacts of systemic racism.
Their purpose was to foster equitable environments in businesses and schools, especially for historically marginalized communities. Researchers say DEI initiatives date back to the 1960s but they expanded in 2020 during increased calls for racial justice.
Plaintiffs in the Lawsuit
In addition to the mayor and the Baltimore City Council, the plaintiffs include the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors and the Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, which represents restaurant workers across the country.
By LINDSAY WHITEHURST, The Associated Press
Conclusion
The appeals court’s decision to lift the block on the executive orders has significant implications for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across the country. While the Trump administration views this as a win, opponents of the orders argue that they will have a chilling effect on efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
As the lawsuit continues to play out, it remains to be seen how the courts will ultimately rule on the constitutionality of the executive orders. One thing is certain, however: the debate over diversity, equity, and inclusion programs will continue to be a contentious issue in American politics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs?
DEI programs are initiatives designed to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in businesses, schools, and other institutions. They aim to foster equitable environments, especially for historically marginalized communities.
Why did the Trump administration issue executive orders targeting DEI programs?
The Trump administration argued that the executive orders were necessary to target DEI programs that violate federal civil rights laws and to align federal spending with the president’s priorities.
What was the appeals court’s decision, and what does it mean?
The appeals court lifted a block on the executive orders, allowing them to be enforced while a lawsuit challenging them plays out. This decision has significant implications for DEI programs across the country.
Who are the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, and what are their arguments?
The plaintiffs include the city of Baltimore, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, and other groups. They argue that the executive orders are an unconstitutional overreach of presidential authority and will have a chilling effect on efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
