A federal appeals court has overturned a previous ruling that blocked executive orders issued by the U.S. President aimed at ending government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
A panel of three judges decided the orders could take effect while a related lawsuit is ongoing. This decision reversed a nationwide injunction previously imposed by a judge in Baltimore. Two judges from the appeals court noted that the orders may raise concerns about First Amendment rights but concluded the earlier injunction was overly broad. The original ruling had claimed the orders violated free speech rights and were too vague due to a lack of clear definitions for DEI programs.
The ruling followed a legal challenge brought by the City of Baltimore, several academic and professional organizations, and advocacy groups. These groups argued that the executive orders exceeded presidential authority and posed a threat to free expression. They emphasized that executive power has limits.
The executive orders required federal agencies to eliminate grants and contracts linked to “equity-related” programs. Additionally, federal contractors were mandated to confirm they do not promote DEI initiatives. The administration defended the orders in court, stating they targeted only DEI programs that violate federal civil rights laws.
During a court hearing, attorney Aleshadye Getachew described the orders as an overcorrection that hinders DEI efforts. While this ruling marked a win for the administration, another lawsuit was filed in Washington, D.C., challenging multiple executive orders tied to DEI policies. This case was brought by civil rights organizations on behalf of nonprofit advocacy groups.
A White House spokesperson commented that those opposing the administration’s stance could either resist or cooperate with the President’s broader policy agenda.
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