These six states banned or limited DEI at colleges and universities in 2024
In a controversial move, six states have taken steps to either ban or restrict the use of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in public colleges and universities this year. Despite the growing popularity of DEI programs in higher education institutions, the practice has faced opposition from Republicans and critics who argue that it promotes a left-wing ideological agenda.
Alabama, Idaho, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, and Utah are the states that have implemented measures to limit or prohibit the use of DEI initiatives in their state’s education system in 2024. These actions have sparked a heated debate about the role of DEI in academia and its impact on students and faculty members.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, signed legislation in January that prohibits institutions from engaging in discriminatory practices based on personal identity characteristics. The law also bans the use of terms like “diversity, equity, and inclusion” in school policies and programs.
In March, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed a bill that prohibits certain DEI offices and the promotion of divisive concepts in public settings. The legislation also mandates the use of restrooms based on biological sex rather than gender identity in public institutions of higher education.
Indiana adopted legislation in March to amend the duties of state educational institutions’ diversity committees and promote intellectual diversity. The state House also introduced a bill to restrict DEI teachings in schools by prohibiting educators from promoting certain concepts related to race or sex.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, a Democrat, allowed legislation in April that imposes fines on public institutions that engage in DEI practices in faculty hiring or student enrollment processes. Governor Kelly expressed concerns about the legislation but ultimately allowed it to become law.
In May, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed an education-funding bill that limits DEI in schools, following the state board of education’s decision to scale back on such practices in higher education. The bill prohibits efforts to promote widely contested opinions related to various DEI concepts as the official position of public institutions of higher education.
Idaho became the latest state to restrict DEI initiatives by requiring institutions to ensure that no central offices, policies, procedures, or initiatives are dedicated to DEI ideology. The state also mandates that employees and students are not required to declare gender identity or preferred pronouns.
Other states, such as Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, have previously banned the practice of DEI in higher education. The debate over the role of DEI in academia continues to be a divisive issue, with supporters advocating for inclusivity and diversity, while opponents argue that it promotes a specific ideological agenda.
