Judge halts Mississippi's DEI ban

Source: WJTV-TV Jackson, MS

Posted: Aug 19, 2025 / 11:38 AM CDT
Updated: Aug 19, 2025 / 04:21 PM CDT


JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A federal judge ruled in favor of those who are challenging certain provisions of Mississippi’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies.

According to court documents, U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate ruled that House Bill 1193 is at odds with the First and Fourteenth Amendments and that its enforcement would “cause irreparable injury to the named plaintiffs and the classes they represent.” Wingate ordered a preliminary injunction pending the final resolution of the matter.
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House Bill 1193 bans public schools and colleges from requiring or promoting DEI statements or programs. Gov. Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) signed the bill in April, and it took effect immediately. However, Wingate issued a temporary restraining order on July 20 before issuing the preliminary injunction on August 18.

“We are pleased that this law is preliminarily enjoined,” said Joshua Tom, legal director at the ACLU of Mississippi.

Read more: https://www.wjtv.com/news/politics/mississippi-politics/judge-halts-mississippis-dei-ban/