The War on DEI
Republican lawmakers have introduced 40 anti-DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) bills targeting higher education institutions since late 2022. The laws take aim at essential institutional practices, including mandatory DEI training for employees, required diversity statements in hiring, DEI office programming, and curriculum and concepts related to systemic racism, sexism, oppression, and privilege.
Momentum began in Texas and Florida, and conservative politicians nationwide quickly introduced copycat measures in their own states. Now, legislation banning DEI initiatives has been signed into law in Florida, Texas, North Dakota, Tennessee, and North Carolina. While some of these bills failed to pass, other policies have successfully limited DEI efforts, and faculty are reporting a chilling effect on teaching and recruitment.
Read more of Insight’s coverage of the War on DEI.
