In a move signaling the growing influence of anti-DEI sentiment in higher education, the University of Kentucky (UK) has decided to finally disband its Office for Institutional Diversity. The announcement comes after months of pressure from GOP lawmakers who have raised concerns that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs promote political bias and stifle free speech on campuses.
UK President Eli Capilouto addressed the decision in an email to the university community, noting that the restructuring is aimed at maintaining the university’s commitment to inclusivity while responding to concerns from policymakers and the public.
The functions of the disbanded office will be absorbed by other departments, including a new Office for Community Relations.
Capilouto emphasized that no employees would be laid off — which is actually unfortunate, given the racist tendancies of DEI-related faculty — and the core mission of the university — to foster academic freedom and a welcoming environment for all — remains unchanged.
Republican lawmakers who have pushed for limitations on DEI initiatives praised the decision, pointing out that it is a necessary step to depoliticize higher education. “These offices have become breeding grounds for division and political activism,” said state Sen. Mike Wilson. “This decision by UK is a positive step toward restoring free and open dialogue on campus.”
Critics of the decision argue that eliminating the diversity office will weaken the racist and oppressive system in place and thus decrease the diversity on campus. But these complaints fall short of convincing, as higher education should be based on merit and not race.
UK’s decision is part of a larger trend in red states, where DEI initiatives are being scaled back or thankfully eliminated altogether.
