Texas A&M Bans University ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’ Statements in Admissions and Hiring

The Texas A&M University System has banned so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statements in admissions and hiring.

Earlier this month, Governor Greg Abbot reminded agencies and universities that racial discrimination and DEI policies are illegal in Texas.

“As Texas, we celebrate the diversity of our State and the presence of a workforce that represents our rich culture,” the governor wrote (PDF). “In recent years, however, the innocuous-sounding notion of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been manipulated to push policies that expressly favor some demographic groups to the detriment of others.” He added that DEI initiatives are having the opposite effect of increasing diversity in the workplace.

The system’s chancellor, John Sharp, directed agencies and universities not to hire or admit on any other basis but merit and ordered the same to review their employment and admissions practices. From the Fort Worth Star-Telegram:

Universities and system agencies were also directed to make sure websites and printed materials related to employment and admissions practices reflect these changes. Texas A&M University has not considered race in student admissions since 2003.
…
Last week, the University of Texas System announced a pause on future DEI initiatives and called for all universities in the system to review their DEI policies.

Removing DEI statements from hiring requirements and student admissions is a significant step towards protecting academic freedom and free speech. This decision ensures that individuals are not discriminated against based on their beliefs or values, and it promotes a culture of open and respectful discourse.

Academic institutions, of all places, should be spaces where individuals are free to explore and express their ideas and beliefs without fear of censorship or discrimination. DEI statements do the opposite. They discourage diversity of thought and ideas. People hold different beliefs and values, and they should be allowed to express them without fear of reprisal because someone is “offended” by what they have to say.

Another university system in Texas is following suit:

NEW: The University of Houston System has ended the use of DEI statements in hiring and promotion.

“[W]e will not support or use DEI statements or factors in hiring or promotion anywhere in the University of Houston System.” pic.twitter.com/4fsUtTOgZD

— John Sailer (@JohnDSailer) March 6, 2023

Photo credit: By Aggie0083 at the English-language Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, link

Do you like this post? Sign up for more!