Head Start providers relieved but cautious after judge halts DEI ban

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of the administration's DEI ban for the duration of a lawsuit, and Head Start providers report relief alongside continued caution after months of application rejections and funding disruptions.

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction on Jan. 6 that prevents the administration from enforcing its executive order banning diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices in Head Start programs while a lawsuit moves through the courts. The ruling follows months in which some grant applications were returned or altered and funding was delayed after the administration introduced new restrictions and staffing changes at the Office of Head Start. Providers said they had removed DEI-related language and trainings from applications to avoid losing funds, even when those elements reflected statutory requirements or local needs. Head Start serves roughly 700,000 children and faced program closures, office consolidations, layoffs, and service interruptions during the 2025 turmoil. What is known: - A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of the administration's DEI ban for the duration of the lawsuit. - The judge also barred further firings at the Office of Head Start, though layoffs already carried out remain in effect. - Providers report relief but say they remain cautious because many approved grant contracts no longer include previously removed trainings and enrollment priorities, and it is unclear whether the administration will appeal or how long the case will take. Summary: The injunction temporarily shields Head Start providers from enforcement of the DEI restrictions and from new personnel actions at the Office of Head Start, easing immediate compliance pressure. Providers remain cautious because prior application changes may create contractual tensions if programming is restored. Undetermined at this time.