Values Over Cash: Python Foundation Rejects $1.5M US Grant Over Anti-DEI Clause

According to the Python Software Foundation, which submitted a proposal to the U.S. National Science Foundation in January 2025 under the Open Source Ecosystem Safety, and Privacy initiative, the grant would address vulnerabilities in Python and PyPI. The proposal was accepted, securing a $1.5 million grant, but the PSF expressed concern that accepting the funds would require adhering to terms prohibiting activities that violate federal anti-discrimination laws or promote DEI.

The terms also allowed the NSF to revoke funds if breached, raising the potential for retroactive repayment. The PSF ultimately declined the federal grant, saying the conditions conflicted with its core values and mission. The withdrawal has left the foundation facing financial pressures, with inflation, shrinking sponsorships, and broader economic conditions cited as strains on resources. It has since urged the global Python community to donate to help maintain operations and continue developing the Python ecosystem.