We may see new developments this week in the presidential administration’s recent actions to withhold federal funding while they review and challenge diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts. 

The United Philanthropy Forum created a new online resource sharing the latest developments, including where things stand as of this morning:

• The immediate funding freeze has been lifted.
• However, the executive orders underpinning the freeze remain in effect, meaning future restrictions on federal spending are still possible.
• Many nonprofits and government partners remain uncertain about how executive actions will impact their funding.
• While the memo was withdrawn, federal courts are still evaluating whether the administration’s broader funding restrictions effectively impose a freeze in practice.

On Friday, our team joined a conversation hosted by the Council on Foundations along with other national partners to unpack and discuss the potential impacts of the recent Executive Orders on DEI.

Here are a few highlights:

• The Executive Orders (EOs) have not changed or impacted any laws. Federal agencies are only required to identify federal organizational practices that promote DEI or violate “anti-discrimination laws.” 
• You are encouraged to familiarize yourself and your staff with the content of the Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based EO as well as what constitutes a violation of “anti-discrimination laws.”
• If you have specific legal questions regarding the EOs, it is recommended to engage legal counsel. 
• As this situation unfolds, it is important to remain pragmatic, adhere to your organization’s mission and values and avoid any overcorrections.

Please note that this is not legal advice; you should consult legal counsel for guidance specific to your organization. 

View the National Council of Nonprofits’ resource: Executive Orders Affecting Charitable Nonprofits. 

You can track the latest presidential actions and executive orders by the administration here.

We invite you to read Remaining Committed to Our Collective Efforts for a More Equitable Michigan for All, a message from CMF President and CEO Kyle Caldwell sent on Friday that shares insights on what foundations can do to support their nonprofit partners and the resources and supports available to you through your CMF membership.

From Our CMF Community & Partners

David Mengebier, president and CEO of Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation and CMF Board Chair, and Sakura Takano, CEO of Rotary Charities and CMF trustee, issued a joint statement in response to the federal funding freeze. 

Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan's president and CEO Nicole Sherard-Freeman released a statement in response to the shifts at the federal level. 

Independent Sector’s president and CEO Dr. Akilah Watkins shared a message highlighting advocacy efforts, action and resources. 

Kelley Kuhn, president and CEO of the Michigan Nonprofit Association, released a statement following the OMB’s memo. 

Asian Americans/ Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy, ABFE, Hispanics in Philanthropy and Native Americans in Philanthropy shared a joint statement in response to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s guidance to all federal agencies to begin the process of shutting down DEI-related programs. 

The National Council of Nonprofits created a sign-on letter to ensure our policymakers understand the importance and impact of our sector.

CMF is collecting stories via this form about how recent disruptions and actions have impacted your organization, partners and/or community. We invite you to share any insights that might help inform policymaker conversations, programming and resource development.

We will continue tracking any developments and alert you to new resources and supports available as we navigate the policy landscape.

If you have questions or need any support, please contact our team.