Daijiworld Media Network- Washington

Washington, Feb 22: In a significant legal setback for former US president Donald Trump, a federal judge in Baltimore has temporarily blocked his executive order aimed at eliminating government funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programmes.

Judge Adam Abelson ruled on Friday that the order likely violates free speech protections, issuing an injunction that prevents the government from defunding DEI-related initiatives until the lawsuit challenging the order is resolved.

On his first day back in office, Trump had signed a sweeping executive order directing federal agencies to terminate all grants and contracts related to DEI efforts. Another order mandated that federal contractors certify they do not support DEI initiatives.

The city of Baltimore, along with higher education organizations, filed a lawsuit earlier this month, arguing that the directives violate constitutional rights, exceed presidential authority, and suppress free speech.

“The chilling effect on universities, municipalities, and private organizations is profound,” the plaintiffs stated in court documents. “These orders undermine critical efforts to ensure equal opportunities for all Americans.”

The Trump administration, however, defended the executive action, claiming that the order only targets DEI programmes that allegedly violate federal civil rights laws. The White House argues that taxpayer funds should not support initiatives that promote discrimination or ideological biases.

Legal experts believe the case could set a major precedent regarding executive power and government funding for DEI programs. If the lawsuit reaches the US Supreme Court, it could have far-reaching implications for federal policies on diversity and inclusion.

For now, Judge Abelson’s ruling ensures that DEI funding remains intact while the legal battle unfolds.