As more public universities are being put in the spotlight for their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies, the University of Texas has paused its new DEI policies on all campuses around Texas.
All around the Lone Star State, public universities and other institutions have been implementing radical DEI policies and departments to promote diversity.
Earlier this month, Gardner Pate, Gov. Greg Abbott’s chief of staff, sent a letter informing all Texas state agencies and public universities that “when a state agency adjusts its employment practices on factors other than merit, it is not following the law.”
After growing pushback from Texas legislators, University of Texas System Board Chair Kevin Eltife stated during a board of regents meeting that he will work with elected officials who are looking into DEI efforts while the university pauses its policies.
“Given the clear legislative focus, we have paused any new DEI policies on our campuses and have asked for a report on current policies across all of our campuses. This will give our board a chance to review the various policies systemwide,” said Eltife. “We will await any action from the Legislature for implementation by the University of Texas System at the appropriate time and if needed, the board may consider a uniform DEI policy for the entire UT System.”
UT is also facing additional scrutiny after Richard Lowery, Ph.D., a tenured finance professor, is suing the university for violating his First Amendment rights. Lowery alleges that university administrators are using DEI requirements to filter out “competent” teachers and professors who disagree with the DEI ideology on campus.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has also announced that banning discriminatory DEI policies in higher education is among his 30 priorities for this legislative session.
Concerned citizens can contact their elected officials to ask how they will vote regarding DEI policies at public universities.
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