Portland Risks Losing $100 Million in Federal Funds Over Refusal to Drop DEI Programs

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland could lose $100 million in annual federal funding if it fails to eliminate some of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies and programs demanded by the Trump Administration.

The City Cannot Certify Compliance

City Administrator Michael Jordan was advised by attorneys not to sign a grant agreement from the government. As a sanctuary city, Portland is not in a position to meet compliance demands.

The advice followed the first grant agreement awarded to the Portland Bureau of Transportation earlier this year, after which the attorneys found that the city would not be able to meet the terms and conditions contained in the agreement.

Yesterday, city councilors were briefed by the attorneys at a closed-door meeting. Later, Jordan issued a statement confirming that Portland is facing challenging decisions that will affect residents from oppressed groups, such as those of color and women.

Portland relies on federal grants that help fund affordable housing, education, freeways, public safety, and other essential services.

Portland Commissioners Revoked DEI Policies in April

In April, the Port of Portland’s Board of Commissioners revoked its DEI policies passed in 2018 with a 6-1 vote.

They were responding to President Trump’s executive order, which threatens to stop funding sanctuary states that advocate for DEI policies.

Portland’s DEI policy states that the city will promote social equity to advance fair and equitable inclusion, and create conditions in which all people can participate, prosper, and achieve equitable outcomes in employment, business, and services.