This blog originally appeared at Support The Guardian.
The governor signed the bill prohibiting diversity, equity and inclusion offices in addition to another codifying tenure restrictions.
Greg Abbott’s office argued that DEI programs ‘push policies that expressly favor some demographic groups to the detriment of others’. Photograph: Eric Gay/AP
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed SB 17, a bill that will effectively ban diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices and initiatives in higher education institutions across the state. The new law mandates the closure of DEI offices in state colleges starting from January 2024. It also puts an end to activities that promote certain groups of individuals over others based on factors such as race, ethnicity, and gender.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits job applicants at Texas universities from making diversity statements, and it prohibits mandatory DEI training for any purpose. This legislation reflects a shift in the state’s approach to DEI efforts within the higher education system.
The impact of this law is a matter of ongoing debate. Supporters argue that it promotes equal treatment and prevents preferential treatment based on certain characteristics. On the other hand, critics contend that it undermines efforts to address systemic inequalities and promote diversity and inclusion within academic institutions.
It’s important to note that this law specifically applies to higher education institutions in Texas and does not have a direct impact on DEI initiatives in other sectors or within private institutions.
“Education is the greatest equalizer in our nation, and Texas is home to world class and innovative colleges and universities. The decisions we make for higher education today determine our Texas of tomorrow,” said the Republican state senator Brandon Creighton, who introduced the bill in March.
“Now that these bills are law, institutes of higher education are better equipped to prepare the next generation of leaders, and keep Texas the economic engine of the nation,” he added.
Creighton went on to explain that what sets the bill apart from other proposals is “that the legislation delivers strong enforcement with mandates to return Texas colleges and universities to their core mission: educate and innovate”.
He condemned DEI offices, saying that they have “failed to make progress advancing or increasing diversity”.
click here to see full blog: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jun/14/new-texas-bans-law-diversity-offices-state-higher-education
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