Federal judge halts Mississippi’s DEI ban until final ruling can be reached

A Mississippi law banning public schools from promoting or participating in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities on campus has, once again, been put on hold.

U.S. Judge Henry Wingate on Monday issued a preliminary injunction extending a temporary restraining order on House Bill 1193. In essence, the judge is blocking the bill from going into effect until a final ruling can be reached on the matter.

The measure aimed at eliminating DEI programs was passed by the GOP-heavy state legislature and signed by Republican Gov. Tate Reeves in April. HB 1193 specifically outlaws the practice of using DEI to hire new employees and teach courses at all public schools, including K-12 education centers, junior colleges, and universities that receive taxpayer funding.

The legislation also