Major University To Scrap DEI Initiatives

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The University of Michigan announced the school will shutter its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs.

“We write today to share important updates related to programs and central offices that support diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Conversations about these institutional efforts have been ongoing since at least 2023 and, with recent federal executive orders, guidance and funding cuts bringing urgency to the issue, we are moving forward with changes that will impact our community at the University of Michigan and Michigan Medicine,” the university announced.

WATCH:

From The Epoch Times:

The changes, announced on Thursday, include shutting down two diversity offices and ending its “DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan.” This follows earlier steps to phase out DEI-related requirements, such as removing mandatory DEI statements in admissions, hiring, promotions, awards, and performance reviews.

The university said individuals who previously worked on DEI initiatives across various schools, colleges, and departments will now “refocus their full effort on their core responsibilities.”

“These decisions have not been made lightly,” University of Michigan President Santa Ono and three top administrators said in a joint statement. “We recognize the changes are significant and will be challenging for many of us, especially those whose lives and careers have been enriched by and dedicated to programs that are now pivoting.

“We are deeply grateful for the meaningful contributions of leaders, faculty, and staff who have advanced our ongoing efforts to create an ever-more inclusive and respectful community.”

Per CNN:

As part of the changes, funds will be reallocated to increase investments in financial aid and mental health resources. Further, university attorneys will conduct a review to ensure “all policies, programs and practices comply with federal law and guidance,” according to a university news release.

Funds will also be redirected to improving advising and counseling services as well as “innovative approaches” such as a personal AI assistant “for every member of the community.” Investments will also be made in maintaining student common areas and “celebrating cultural and ethnic programs,” the release said.

“These decisions have not been made lightly. We recognize the changes are significant and will be challenging for many of us, especially those whose lives and careers have been enriched by and dedicated to programs that are now pivoting,” reads a joint statement from President Santa J. Ono and other university leaders.

The elimination of the program comes after President Donald Trump’s expansive executive order banning DEI programs, effectively ordering agencies to “align” with the White House’s policies and guidance.

Then, in February, the Department of Education threatened the federal funding of any academic institution engaging in DEI initiatives, which prompted many to scrub DEI mentions from websites, shutter programs and some to lose funding for scholarships.



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