Monday, June 19, 2023
Governor Greg Abbott has signed a bill that is geared toward eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) from higher education.
Senate Bill 17 requires universities to shut down their DEI offices and ban all mandatory diversity training. Hiring departments will be restricted from asking for diversity statements.
Texas is the first state to take action against DEI. Senator Brandon Creighton commends Texas for taking this step.
"Texas is leading the nation, and ensuring our campuses return to focusing on the strength of diversity and promoting a merit-based approach where individuals are judged on their qualifications, skills, and contributions," said Sen. Creighton (R-Conroe).
Critics of the bill worry that underrepresented groups will not feel as welcome to attend Texas universities.
"You're talking about legislation that's going to take away one of the only places that students can feel seen, heard, and acknowledged and helped," said University of Texas law student Sam Jefferson.
Creighton, however, says that DEI programs are exclusive and are not effective.
DEI programs focus much more on social justice rather than merit and achievement. Which do you think is more important for a university to concern themselves with?
Do you agree with the banning of DEI institutions? Let us know by taking our brief survey here!