DHS Alters Nonprofit Security Grant Conditions
New requirements tied to the Nonprofit Security Grants Program (NSGP) have sparked backlash among religious groups. The program, which provides federal funds for nonprofit security measures, including houses of worship, now includes stipulations that recipients must cooperate with immigration enforcement and reject programs promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These changes, announced earlier this year by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), are seen by critics as pushing a conservative agenda.
Faith Communities Warn of Religious Freedom Violations
Many religious leaders argue that the conditions violate religious freedom and ethical obligations. A joint letter signed by nearly 70 religious organizations and 120 individual faith leaders rejects the new rules. Predominantly signed by Jewish and Unitarian groups, the letter states, “We are unified in refusing to capitulate to conditions that would require us to sacrifice the safety and dignity of our community members.”
Groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and IfNotNow have joined the protest, warning that compliance would conflict with core religious missions, especially those supporting migrants or engaging in social justice initiatives.
Legal and Ethical Challenges Mount
In May, 20 state attorneys general sued DHS, alleging the new conditions are unconstitutional. Critics argue the requirements risk turning houses of worship into agents of the state. A federal judge agreed in part, chastising the government for attempting to enforce compliance through grant award letters despite prior legal prohibitions.
Faith-based legal experts, including the United Church of Christ and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, have issued advisories urging congregations to scrutinize the terms of federal grants. Some denominations now hesitate to apply for NSGP funding at all.
Rising Violence Underscores Security Needs
The controversy unfolds amid a troubling rise in attacks on places of worship. Recent deadly incidents at churches in Minneapolis and Michigan have increased the urgency for enhanced security. Still, some faith groups now face a painful choice: accept funding with controversial conditions or find alternative means to protect their congregants.
Religious Groups Seek Alternative Safety Solutions
Community organizers, including those with the Community Safety Campaign, say some congregations are developing independent safety strategies. “Even with material impacts, communities are unwilling to take this money under these conditions,” said organizer Nadav David.
The conflict raises broader concerns over potential bias in DHS funding. CNN recently reported allegations that Muslim groups were unfairly targeted for exclusion from grant programs — a claim DHS denies, though several organizations reported losing funding without explanation.
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Faith groups reject new Trump security grant rules over ICE, DEI
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