The University of North Carolina system board has voted to repeal a diversity, equity, and inclusion policy that has been in place for nearly five years. This decision will likely result in the cutting of diversity programs and jobs at the system’s 17 schools, following similar moves at other major universities. The policy change focuses on removing a 2019 regulation that outlines DEI positions and their responsibilities, potentially leading to the elimination of these roles within the university system.
The new policy does not include the outlined responsibilities of DEI officers and liaisons, indicating that these positions may be discontinued. The university system has stated that its goal is not to cut jobs, but some positions may be affected by the new change. Extra funding originally designated for DEI offices will now be redirected towards “student success initiatives,” according to the system. However, the policy will not impact classroom instruction, university research, student organizations, or cultural centers.
UNC System President Peter Hans emphasized the importance of allowing students and faculty to confront differing ideas, while maintaining neutrality on political controversies as public universities. Despite concerns raised by faculty, students, and staff about the impact of the policy change on diversity, Hans reaffirmed the system’s commitment to welcoming diversity at its schools. The university system received public feedback before the vote, with the majority of comments opposed to the potential repeal, citing the benefits of diversity programs for students and faculty.
Protests against the repeal of the DEI policy have taken place outside the UNC System Office, with demonstrators highlighting the importance of diversity initiatives in ensuring inclusion for minority students and faculty. Similar moves to cut diversity programs and jobs have been seen at other universities across the country, with at least 20 states witnessing Republican proposals to limit such programs in public institutions. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill recently voted to reallocate DEI spending to public safety initiatives, sparking further debate and opposition within the university.
Plans to cut DEI funding at UNC date back to at least late March, with discussions around reallocating funds and preparing for rapid changes. The university’s Chief Diversity Officer, Dr. Leah Cox, headed a 12-person staff that was previously listed on the University Office for Diversity and Inclusion’s website. Interim Chancellor Lee Roberts stated that decisions regarding the diversity office and related jobs would depend on the finalized policy by the Board of Governors. Efforts to address diversity and inclusion in higher education remain a contentious issue, with debates around the impact of such initiatives on discrimination and inclusion.
