The Maryland Judiciary launched a grant program in January to fund diversity, equity, and inclusion in the state court system. Daily Caller News Foundation report.
”DEI grants” aims to “provide fair, efficient, and effective justice for all” by funding three year-round DEI positions in three select circuit courts.
“Access to Justice has awarded three invitational demonstration grants to circuit courts for diversity, equity, and inclusion coordinator positions, and has provided each jurisdiction with a community advisory officer to serve as a community liaison. “We will establish advisory committees in each region, with rotating membership to ensure diversity of voices and jurisdiction,” the grant program states.
The coordinator is responsible for creating a “comfortable” environment.[ing] Provide “advice and guidance on DEI best practices and trends” and incorporate DEI efforts into court customer service functions. This position will also “support the development of advisory committees” and “identify, develop, and implement plans to promote diversity within the court system.” Additionally, this grant will provide support to the court system for staff and the community. Funds his DEI-related programs and events within.
The grant is provided through the Administrative Office of the Maryland State Bar. The deadline for applications for the grant program is March 15, and the selected courts will be announced in June 2025.
The court system recently posted a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Coordinator job on LinkedIn with a salary of $89,964.
According to the posted job description, “The DEIB Coordinator will develop a sustainable approach to strengthening the diversity of AOC’s workplace and programs while ensuring inclusive and equitable AOC operations.” “DEIB Coordinators use objective assessments, evidence-based approaches, and professional judgment to develop policies and procedures that leverage diversity and ensure equity, inclusion, and belonging in AOC operations. Develops and coordinates changes in education, human resource management.”
William A. Jacobson, a professor at Cornell Law School and founder of the Equal Protection Project, told DCNF that DEI efforts do not belong in the courts.
“DEI is an ideological approach to group identity that is antithetical to constitutional structures that focus on individual rights and obligations,” Jacobson said. “There is no good reason for courts anywhere to abandon their focus on individuals and focus on groups. DEI focuses on that group identity, so all individuals have equal protection.” “We must abide by the law and be treated with respect regardless of our race, ethnicity, or other protected status.” ”
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