The future of diversity, equity, and inclusion staff jobs within North Carolina’s public university system is uncertain after a committee within the University of North Carolina Board of Governors voted to repeal a key policy related to DEI. The full board is set to vote on the matter next month, potentially leading to the dismantling of diversity offices within the UNC system. This move would align with other universities across the country, such as the University of Florida, which recently scrapped its diversity office and diverted funding towards faculty recruitment instead.
Various states, including Texas and Kansas, have already seen cuts in diversity and inclusion staff due to legislation limiting DEI initiatives. At least 20 states have seen proposals seeking to restrict diversity and inclusion programs in public institutions. DEI is defined by the American Psychological Association as a framework for fair treatment and full participation of all people, especially those from minority groups. Conservatives often argue that DEI programs are discriminatory, leading to these legislative efforts to limit their scope and impact.
The proposed policy change in North Carolina would impact a DEI regulation adopted in 2019, defining roles for various DEI positions across the university system. The new policy does not include outlined responsibilities for DEI officers and liaisons, suggesting that these positions may be eliminated. However, other inclusion efforts such as tracking diversity metrics and reporting to university boards would continue. UNC-Chapel Hill, the flagship campus of the system, has a 12-person staff in its office for diversity and inclusion and will review the policy change if implemented.
Former UNC System President Tom Ross and Governor Roy Cooper denounced efforts to dissolve university diversity programs, calling them a disservice to students. They believe that celebrating diversity is important for universities, rather than restricting DEI initiatives. On the other hand, conservative-leaning groups like the Carolina Partnership for Reform support the new policy as a way to eliminate what they perceive as unnecessary bureaucracy in DEI efforts. The full UNC Board of Governors is set to meet later this month to further discuss the policy change and its potential impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the university system.
The move to repeal the diversity policy was made swiftly and without any questions or discussion, raising concerns about transparency and public input. Efforts to dissolve university diversity initiatives have been met with criticism from some, who argue that these programs are essential for creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. The UNC Board of Governors, comprised of members elected by the state Senate and House of Representatives, will have the final say on the policy changes, with potential legislation to address DEI initiatives being considered by Republican leaders in the state legislature.
The debate over diversity, equity, and inclusion in North Carolina’s public university system reflects a broader national conversation on these issues. The impact of potential policy changes on DEI staff roles and responsibilities remains uncertain, with both supporters and critics of these programs advocating for their respective positions. The upcoming meeting of the UNC Board of Governors will be crucial in determining the future direction of DEI efforts within the university system and could have far-reaching implications for diversity and inclusion in higher education.
