DeKalb GA News

A federal appeals court has lifted a preliminary injunction on two executive orders signed by former President Trump aimed at eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. The orders targeted DEI policies within federal agencies and among recipients of federal grants.

The case was initially challenged by the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, along with three national associations. Last month, a Biden-appointed judge had placed a preliminary injunction against these executive orders.

On Friday evening, a three-judge panel from the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Virginia granted the government's motion for a stay of this injunction. The panel included Chief Judge Albert Diaz and Judge Pamela Harris, both appointed by Obama, as well as Judge Allison Blair Jones Rushing, appointed by Trump.

This decision is not final regarding the merits of the case but allows the executive orders to remain in effect while legal proceedings continue. Chief Judge Diaz noted in his concurring opinion that DEI policies create an environment where everyone is respected and valued. He questioned rhetorically, "What could be more American than that?"

Judge Harris stated that Trump's executive orders do not violate the First or Fifth Amendment. She explained that they are limited in scope and apply only to conduct violating existing federal anti-discrimination law. According to her opinion reviewed by The Gateway Pundit, the termination provisions relate solely to grant-funded activities themselves.

Judge Rushing concurred with granting the government's motion for a stay pending appeal. She expressed concern over the broad scope of the initial injunction and emphasized judicial impartiality. She stated that personal opinions on DEI programs should not influence judicial decisions.

The court's ruling means that Trump's executive orders will remain effective as the legal process continues.