Standing Firm Through Uncertainty

Since securing our preliminary injunction in April, our case has continued moving through federal court, with a significant victory in late October.

The Trump administration filed two motions: one seeking to pause the injunction during their appeal to the Seventh Circuit, and another challenging the nationwide scope of the injunction. Judge Kennelly denied both requests. He rejected the government's argument that the injunction was too broad, explaining that if other federally funded organizations must certify that they don't engage in “DEI work,” they'll be afraid to partner with us. To give CWIT complete relief, the ruling protects everyone subject to this certification requirement.

Where we stand today:

• The government's appeal continues at the Seventh Circuit.

• Our protections remain in place during that appeal.

• A separate government motion to dismiss our case entirely is still pending.

• The scope of the injunction protects not only CWIT but also similar organizations across the country.

Read about the latest court ruling

In September, NPR labor correspondent Andrea Hsu visited CWIT during the Tradeswomen Build Nations conference and featured us in a story about navigating uncertainty while continuing to serve our communities.

Read the digital story:

How a Small Chicago Nonprofit is

Resisting Trump's War on DEI

The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law honored us with the Courageous Client Award at their 25th Anniversary Higginbotham Leadership Awards.

“Chicago Women in Trades took the Trump Administration head-on in court,” the Lawyers' Committee said. “The organization does critical work to empower women to pursue construction industry professions that have been historically denied to them.”

Read more about the award:
CWIT Honored with Courageous Client Award 

for Standing Against Anti-DEI Orders

In October, the Illinois House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 161, reaffirming the state's commitment to equity and accountability in construction workforce opportunities. This victory came after over 200 tradeswomen and advocates gathered in Springfield in March for the second annual Tradeswomen Take Over Springfield advocacy day.

The resolution reinforces that public dollars should support contractors who uphold values of inclusion, safety, and fair opportunity. While federal support faces uncertainty, Illinois is leading the way.

Read more:

Tradeswomen Advocates Help Pass House

Resolution for Gender and Racial Equity

Building Relationships at the State Capitol

Resolutions like HR 161 don't happen overnight—they're the result of countless conversations between our policy team and Illinois lawmakers. Building these relationships takes time, persistence, and the willingness to share tradeswomen's stories again and again.

Read:

State Legislators Visit CWIT to Understand Barriers Facing Tradeswomen

Creating truly inclusive workplaces isn't one-size-fits-all—it requires understanding the specific challenges each group faces and taking intentional action to address them. That is why we prioritize respectful worksite training, amplify the lived experiences of tradeswomen to challenge harmful practices and drive meaningful change, while equipping workers with critical information about their rights. We understand the need for contractors, employers, and registered apprenticeship programs to be equipped with information on laws, policies, and best practices to prevent harassment and discrimination and to create safe, healthy, and productive work environments.

Know Your Obligations Workshop

Workplace harassment and discrimination aren't just HR issues—they're legal obligations every construction employer needs to understand. Early next year, Chicago Women in Trades will co-lead a workshop with the Illinois Department of Human Rights that breaks down what the law requires and outlines best practices for creating safer, more equitable job sites.

If you’re a contractor, contractor association, or HR professional interested in gaining a better understanding of your obligations in creating a safe, respectful, and productive work environment, this workshop covers the definitions that matter—real examples of what constitutes harassment and discrimination, and practical prevention strategies you can use immediately.

Let us know how we can address your questions regarding local Chicago and Illinois state anti-harassment and discrimination law so that we can tailor this workshop to your unique needs:

Your support makes this year's accomplishments possible. In uncertain times, contributions from people who believe in economic opportunity for all ensure we can continue preparing women for careers that provide security while helping the industry build safer, more inclusive workplaces.

Whether you're a contractor committed to inclusive hiring, a policymaker championing equity, or simply someone who believes women deserve safe, well-paying careers—thank you for standing with us!