Washington, Feb 22 (IANS) A federal judge has temporarily blocked a sweeping executive order issued by President Donald Trump that aimed to end government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The ruling comes as a lawsuit challenging the order moves forward.
Judge Adam Abelson, based in Baltimore, ruled on Friday that the order likely violates free speech protections. He granted an injunction preventing the federal government from withdrawing funding from DEI-related initiatives until the case is resolved.
On his first day back in office, President Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to terminate all grants and contracts related to equity-focused programs. A subsequent order mandated that federal contractors certify they do not support DEI efforts.
The lawsuit challenging the orders was filed earlier this month by plaintiffs including the city of Baltimore and higher education organisations. They argue that the directives are unconstitutional, represent an overreach of presidential authority, and suppress free speech.
“The chilling effect on universities, municipalities, and private entities is profound,” the plaintiffs stated in legal filings. “These orders undermine critical efforts to ensure equal opportunities for all Americans.”
The Trump administration, however, contends that the President’s actions are narrowly focussed on DEI programs that allegedly violate federal civil rights laws. White House officials argue that federal funds should not support initiatives that, in their view, promote discrimination or ideological agendas.
Legal experts suggest the case could set a major precedent regarding executive power and government funding for DEI programs. If the lawsuit progresses to the Supreme Court, it could have far-reaching implications for federal policies related to diversity and inclusion.
For now, Judge Abelson’s ruling ensures that funding for DEI programs remains intact while the legal battle unfolds.
–IANS
rs/rad
Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by BhaskarLive.in and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of BhaskarLive.in We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, BhaskarLive.in takes no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.
For any legal details or query please visit original source link given with news or click on Go to Source.
Our translation service aims to offer the most accurate translation possible and we rarely experience any issues with news post. However, as the translation is carried out by third part tool there is a possibility for error to cause the occasional inaccuracy. We therefore require you to accept this disclaimer before confirming any translation news with us.
If you are not willing to accept this disclaimer then we recommend reading news post in its original language.
