Understanding the New DEI Executive Order: What's the Tea in L&E?

Breaking News: On February 21, 2025, a Judge issued partial injunction on Trump’s DEI Executive Orders, temporarily staying the aspects of the order that direct agencies to terminate equity-related grants and contracts, that directs agencies to include a certification in federal contracts that the contractor does not operate any programs promoting “unlawful” DEI, and that directs the AG to investigate the private sector for “unlawful” DEI programs. The initial basis for the injunction is that the directives are potentially unconstitutional and violate free speech rights.

What’s the Tea in L&E is a video series focused on the latest trends and updates in labor and employment law. In this short video, Woods Rogers L&E attorneys Leah Stiegler and Emily Kendall Chowhan discuss the recent executive order on unlawful diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which has sparked confusion among executives and organizational leaders. With the government targeting companies, Leah and Emily offer practical insights and discuss the implications for both federal contractors and private organizations.