A federal judge in Maryland temporarily blocked President Trump from implementing bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at federal agencies and businesses that contract with the government. The judge stated that these bans likely violate the First Amendment. The orders were part of Trump’s efforts to eliminate DEI initiatives, which he and critics consider discriminatory. The judge’s decision applies nationwide pending a lawsuit by Baltimore and three groups. It is unclear how this decision will affect actions already taken by the Trump administration. Stephen Miller, a critic of diversity initiatives, claimed DEI programs are illegal race-based discrimination. Democracy Forward, representing the plaintiffs, welcomed the ruling. DEI policies became more prevalent after protests in 2020, prompting Trump’s orders. Civil rights groups argue these programs are needed to address discrimination. Trump directed federal agencies to eliminate diversity programs and barred federal contractors from having them. The Trump administration argued that the orders aimed to address unlawful discrimination, not restrict speech. The plaintiffs claimed the orders targeted constitutionally protected free speech. The judge found the orders and DEI definitions to be vague, causing chilling effects on speech. The plaintiffs demonstrated harm and reasonable fears due to the orders. The battle over DEI programs continues as the legal challenge unfolds.
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