383 ‘active’ DEI offices, programs still at in effect at US colleges: report

A recent investigation conducted by the conservative nonprofit Defending Education has revealed that there are still 383 “currently active” Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices and programs at colleges and universities across the country. Of these, 243 universities have institution-wide DEI offices or programming in place.

Defending Education, formerly known as Parents Defending Education, is dedicated to fighting indoctrination in classrooms and on campuses in order to promote a quality, non-political education for all students. Their investigation uncovered that while some schools have shut down their DEI efforts, others have rebranded or reorganized them in an attempt to conceal their presence.

According to the investigation, at least 27 universities, colleges, or schools within institutions have taken steps to hide their DEI resources. Some schools have even moved their online DEI resources behind password-protected web pages. Defending Education’s Vice President and Legal Fellow, Sarah Parshall Perry, emphasized that these actions are in violation of federal law and are a clear attempt to evade scrutiny.

One university that has come under fire for allegedly hiding its DEI resources is Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC). Despite claims of undergoing a review to ensure compliance, offices such as the Office of Health Equity, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and the Office for Diversity Affairs at VUMC are still active, according to Senator Marsha Blackburn.

The White House has condemned the behavior of some elite universities, including Harvard, for their refusal to comply with demands to end DEI programs. In response, the administration announced a freeze of over $2 billion in federal funding for Harvard. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed concern over taxpayer dollars funding institutions that engage in illegal behavior and indoctrination.

Defending Education remains committed to uncovering discrimination in higher education and advocating for a colorblind education system for all American students. Their mission is to ensure that every student has access to a quality education that is free from political influence and bias.

As the investigation continues and more universities are scrutinized for their DEI practices, it is crucial for transparency and accountability to be upheld in higher education institutions. The push for a fair and equitable educational system for all students remains a top priority for Defending Education and other watchdog groups dedicated to promoting academic freedom and integrity.