Pushing Back On The Rollback

I’ve heard from several clients who are nervous about continuing to pursue their workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

They aren’t sure what is legal. They fear loss of funds and lawsuits. Many have put programs on hold until more is known.

It’s no surprise. This is exactly what President Trump’s administration wants: to sow fear, and thereby roll back the progress that has been made.

Good news emerged last Friday when U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson in Baltimore granted a preliminary injunction blocking the administration from terminating or changing federal contracts they consider equity-related. Judge Abelson found that the orders likely carry constitutional violations, including against free-speech rights.

Here are some additional resources that outline what is legal, including educational programs and workshops. I hope they are helpful to you as you consider your path forward.

• AG Campbell Issues Guidance For Businesses On Diversity, Equity, Inclusion And Accessibility Employment Initiatives In The Workplace (press release)

• The Legal Landscape Around DEI Is Shifting. Your Messaging Should, Too (Harvard Business Review)

• DEI Programs Are Lawful Under Federal Civil Rights Laws and Supreme Court Precedent (Office of General Counsel)