Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, along with a coalition of 18 attorneys general, has filed an amicus brief in support of a legal challenge against two executive orders issued by former President Trump. These orders target diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives.
The case, National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education v. Trump, is being heard by the United States Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit. The plaintiffs include higher education associations and the city of Baltimore. They contest the executive orders' vague directives that require federal agencies to terminate "equity-related grants or contracts" and mandate recipients to certify they do not promote "diversity, equity and inclusion." One order also encourages the private sector to end such initiatives. The administration has not clarified which practices it deems objectionable.
"Diversity initiatives are lawful, and studies show that they lead to more successful businesses and learning environments," Raoul stated. "I will stand with those who are challenging this administration’s illegal attempts to eliminate these programs and turn back the clock on the important progress that has been made toward equity."
A lower court previously ruled in favor of the plaintiffs by issuing a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of these provisions. However, this injunction was stayed by the 4th Circuit pending an appeal decision. Raoul and his colleagues are urging the court to reinstate the district court's order.
The brief argues that diversity programs comply with state and federal civil rights laws and provide significant benefits to states, residents, and businesses through inclusive workplaces, schools, and communities.
Attorney General Raoul co-led this initiative with California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. Attorneys general from Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington joined them in filing this lawsuit.