Appeals court lifts blocks on Trump's orders restricting diversity, equity and inclusion programs

After a week filled with legal defeats for the Trump administration, a federal appeals court delivered a victory to the president on Friday evening. This win came in the form of allowing the enforcement of two executive orders aimed at eradicating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the federal government.

A three-judge panel from the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals determined that the Trump administration had a strong likelihood of success in contesting a lower court’s decision that declared Trump’s DEI executive orders, one eliminating DEI initiatives in government and the other mandating that grant recipients do not engage in DEI programs, as unconstitutional.

Interestingly, two of the judges on the panel were appointed by Democratic presidents. Despite this, they have permitted the Trump administration to implement the policy while they deliberate on a final verdict regarding the potential violation of the Constitution by these executive orders.

In a concurring opinion, Judge Albert Diaz issued a warning about the political messaging surrounding DEI, which he called “a monster in America’s closet.” The people working to enact DEI policies “deserve praise” because they are trying to create an “environment and culture where everyone is respected and valued,” he wrote.

“From boardrooms to courtrooms to operating rooms to classrooms, previously marginalized Americans are thriving in spaces long closed to them. And we are the better for it,” he wrote. “As with most monsters in the closet, what lurks is but a mere shadow, for which the remedy is simply light.”

Copyright © 2025 ABC News Internet Ventures.

You May Also Like
How Prince Harry's become Spare to Meghan Markle's relentless ambitions: There's no sign of him in the Duchess's podcast or second series of Netflix show

Prince Harry: Supportive Husband Steps Back as Meghan Markle Takes Center Stage in Podcast and Netflix Series

She may have her critics – but even they would surely acknowledge…
Chicago robberies: Armed robbery suspects with stolen car targeting people in Bucktown, Logan Square and West Town, CPD warns

CPD alert: Armed robbery suspects in stolen car targeting Bucktown, Logan Square, and West Town

Chicago police issued a warning regarding a recent spate of armed robberies…
Israel faces new Syria challenge as it adjusts to new strategy amid regional power struggle for influence

Israel confronts fresh challenge in Syria while adapting to new tactics during struggle for regional power dynamics.

In Tel Aviv, the Israeli Air Force conducted a strike on the…
‘Adolescence’ Episode 1 Recap: My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done?

Recap of Episode 1 of ‘Adolescence’: My Son, My Son, What Have You Done?

There was a comment online implying that by removing the jungle footage…
‘Severance’s Sarah Bock Unpacks Miss Huang’s Wild Season 2 Ride, From The Severed Floor To Svalbard

‘Breaking Down Miss Huang’s Eventful Season 2 Journey in Severance, from the Severed Floor to Svalbard, with Sarah Bock’

When Miss Huang was initially introduced as the enigmatic new deputy manager…
Missing American college student search potentially complicated by power outage: expert

Witness Provides Details of Encounter with Missing American College Student at Beach

In Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, a significant witness related to the disappearance…
Chicago Public Schools Board budget amendment public hearings wrap up as officials call on CPS to pay back $175M pension payment

CPS Officials Urge Payment of $175M Pension Obligation Following Conclusion of Public Hearing on Budget Amendment

CHICAGO (WLS) — The battle is heating up between Chicago Public Schools…
Hamas agrees to release Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage

Hamas to free Edan Alexander, the final American hostage

Hamas agreed Friday to release Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage…
Subtle signs Vanessa was pining after Tiger as their romance is revealed

Indications Vanessa had feelings for Tiger as their relationship unfolds

According to an exclusive report by DailyMail.com, Vanessa Trump and Tiger Woods…
Rachel Zegler's performance of 'Waiting on a Wish' amasses 50 million views to date

Rachel Zegler’s rendition of ‘Waiting on a Wish’ garners 50 million views so far

Rachel Zegler’s performance of “Waiting on a Wish” is taking the world…
Ross Mathews Scolds Drew Barrymore For Not Showering After An Ocean Swim: “Have You Heard Where They Drain The Sewage?!”

Ross Mathews scolds Drew Barrymore for not showering after swimming in the ocean, expressing concern about the sewage drainage in the area.

Ross Mathews was utterly stunned to hear that his bestie Drew Barrymore…
Tiger Woods' iconic rise to be turned into a movie... but Vanessa Trump romance could jeopardize project

Upcoming Movie on Tiger Woods’ Inspirational Journey Threatened by Vanessa Trump Relationship

Tiger Woods is reportedly getting the Hollywood treatment with the golf legend’s…