On March 27, a U.S. judge named Matthew Kennelly decided that groups receiving money from the Labor Department can keep their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs—for now. The judge said he would think for two weeks about whether to ban a rule that stops these groups from operating DEI initiatives that might break anti-discrimination laws.
The order is a small victory for the Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT), a group that helps women learn jobs like carpentry, welding, and plumbing. The judge agreed that forcing CWIT and other groups to say they don’t have DEI programs, even those unrelated to their federal money, is unfair and hurts their rights to free speech.
Judge Kennelly also ruled that the Labor Department cannot stop CWIT’s funding because of a rule from former President Donald Trump. This rule, issued on January 21, ordered federal agencies to end “equity-related grants.” This ruling only protects CWIT for now, as the judge noted that broad rulings affecting many groups can lead to problems in the legal system.
Many believe that decisions from judges should not limit a president’s powers too much. The Labor Department and Justice Department did not comment on the judge’s ruling. This case is just one of many that challenge Trump’s plans against DEI efforts, which he argues are unfair. Earlier this month, a federal appeals court said the Trump administration could temporarily stop DEI programs in federal agencies and companies with government contracts.
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