On March 14, 2025, a three-judge panel from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals lifted a nationwide injunction that had previously blocked President Donald Trump’s executive orders aimed at ending federal support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The initial injunction was issued by U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson in Baltimore, who found that the orders likely violated free speech rights and were unconstitutionally vague due to the lack of a specific definition of DEI. However, the appeals court determined that while the orders might raise First Amendment concerns, the broad scope of the nationwide injunction was excessive. Judge Pamela Harris, writing for the panel, noted that her vote should not be interpreted as agreement with the administration’s stance against DEI initiatives.
President Trump signed the contested executive orders on his first day back in office. One order directed federal agencies to terminate all “equity-related” grants or contracts, while a subsequent order required federal contractors to certify that they do not promote DEI. The city of Baltimore, along with other groups, filed a lawsuit challenging these orders, arguing that they represent an unconstitutional overreach of presidential authority.
The Justice Department has defended the executive orders, asserting that they aim to align federal spending with the president’s priorities and target only DEI programs that allegedly violate federal civil rights laws. Supporters of DEI initiatives argue that these programs are essential for fostering equitable environments in various institutions and addressing the enduring impacts of systemic racism.
