A federal judge has temporarily blocked Mississippi’s law that bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools and universities, citing free speech concerns. The order, issued by U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate, pauses the implementation of House Bill 1193 for at least 14 days while a legal challenge proceeds. The law, approved in April and set to take effect in July, prohibits DEI offices, programs, trainings, and statements, as well as any discussions on topics like systemic racism or gender theory. The judge’s decision was based on affidavits from school officials who reported that vague restrictions under the law have led to the abrupt ending of partnerships and programs supporting LGBTQ+ students. The ruling highlights the potential chilling effect on academic freedom and institutional functions, with the judge emphasizing that the law’s enforcement mechanisms—such as withdrawal of state funds—exacerbate this issue. The plaintiffs, including the Mississippi Association of Educators and represented by the ACLU and Mississippi Center for Justice, are seeking a preliminary injunction to more permanently block the DEI ban. A hearing on this matter is scheduled for August 3. The Mississippi Attorney General’s office has not yet responded to requests for comment on potential appeals to the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.