Underground Railroad Museum Sues Trump Administration Over Canceled Grant

The museum alleges the grant termination was based on race, violating the First and Fifth Amendments.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:44am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Underground Railroad Education Center in Albany, New York, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that the National Endowment for the Humanities unlawfully terminated a $250,000 federal grant to the museum on the basis of race. The lawsuit claims the grant cancelation violated the First and Fifth Amendments and is part of the administration's broader efforts to dismantle diversity-focused initiatives.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration's push to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and the efforts of organizations like the Underground Railroad Education Center to preserve and promote Black history and culture. The lawsuit alleges a pattern of the administration targeting museums and exhibits across the U.S. that focus on African American history.

The details

The Underground Railroad Education Center, which is based in the home of abolitionists Stephen and Harriet Myers, alleges the grant termination came after President Trump's 2025 executive order requiring federal agencies to eliminate operations supporting DEI initiatives. The lawsuit states that 1,400 grants were canceled in early 2025 due to conflicts with the president's orders and new agency priorities.

  • In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order requiring federal agencies to eliminate operations supporting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within 60 days.
  • In early April 2025, the National Endowment for the Humanities canceled 1,400 grants, including a $250,000 grant to the Underground Railroad Education Center.

The players

Underground Railroad Education Center

A museum in Albany, New York, that is based in the home of abolitionists Stephen and Harriet Myers and works to preserve and promote Black history and culture.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who issued an executive order in 2025 requiring federal agencies to eliminate operations supporting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

National Endowment for the Humanities

A federal agency that provides grants to support research, education, preservation, and public programs in the humanities.

Nina Loewenstein

A lawyer representing the Underground Railroad Education Center in the lawsuit against the Trump administration.

Lawyers for Good Government

An organization that provides free legal services for civil and human rights cases, and is assisting the Underground Railroad Education Center with its lawsuit.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.