ACLU Files Lawsuit Against NEA Over 'Gender Ideology' Grant Restrictions

The lawsuit challenges new Trump-era policies that bar funding for projects promoting transgender and nonbinary identities, citing constitutional violations.

The ACLU has filed a lawsuit on behalf of four arts organizations against the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) over a new grant requirement prohibiting the promotion of 'gender ideology.'
The policy, stemming from a Trump executive order, mandates applicants to affirm that federal funds will not be used to support projects addressing transgender and nonbinary themes.
Plaintiffs argue the policy violates the First and Fifth Amendments, as well as the NEA's founding principle of awarding grants based on artistic excellence and merit.
The lawsuit seeks a preliminary injunction or temporary restraining order ahead of the March 24 grant application deadline to prevent the enforcement of the policy.
Critics warn the policy undermines freedom of artistic expression and could exclude historically funded projects by LGBTQ+ and minority-focused organizations.

The Hollywood Reporter

The Hill