In April, I told you about the University of Texas’s decision to close its DEI office. This decision was made in response to a state law passed by the legislature that required universities to close their diversity departments.
Another Southern university did the same thing this week. The University of Kentucky, however, is letting go of its DEI office in anticipation of the Bluegrass State legislature’s possible actions next year. This move will not result in job loss because the university is restructuring and moving the office into another department for different initiatives.
The Associated Press reports that “the action on the Lexington campus came after state legislators debated whether or not to limit diversity equity and inclusion practices at universities.” The Republican supermajority in the Kentucky House of Representatives and Senate was unable to resolve the differences before the session ended in April. However, the issue is expected to be raised again when lawmakers reconvene in early 2019.
Eli Capilouto, University President, sent an email to all students and faculty announcing his decision. He stated that by reassigning DEI to other departments, academic freedom is protected while maintaining “a sense of belonging” among students and faculty.
Capilouto wrote: “But we have also listened and heard from policymakers, and we have heard their concerns about our appearance as being partisans or political in the way we approach the issues of the day. As a result, we interpret everything solely by the lens of identity.” “By doing so, there is concern that we may intentionally or unintentionally restrict discourse.” In conversations with students, faculty, and staff on our campus, I have heard many of these concerns.
Capilouto, a spokesperson for the AP, said that “in outlining the restructuring of UK, the University will not mandate centralized training on diversity at the unit or college level.” He said that the university would not require diversity statements to be included in hiring or application processes. Websites will also be free from political views, to ensure impartiality.
Nearly 800 miles away from the University of Nebraska, it is closing its DEI office. Rodney Bennett, Chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, announced his decision via a letter. Bennett’s announcement has another twist: he is the first African-American to hold the position of chancellor of the University of Nebraska.
Bennett wrote: “I understand the importance of this decision and its implications. But a centralized method for this work is not right for our institution.” Bennett said the university’s goal will be to “support and build a sense of community and belonging” in other departments.
He wrote: “It’s incumbent on us all to create a welcoming atmosphere for every member of our community.”
Bennett was appointed chancellor in the last academic year. His predecessor had spoken out against state legislators’ intent to pass legislation banning university DEI departments. The legislative effort was unsuccessful.
Universities are also beginning to move away from DEI. It’s hoped that DEI will soon be a thing of the past.
