Three Alabama universities cut their DEI programs

A trio of Alabama universities , in compliance with state law, will dissolve their diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and move the employees to other positions.

The University of Alabama, with campuses across the state, has gutted the programs at three locations: Birmingham, Huntsville, and the main campus at Tuscaloosa. As of Oct. 1, 2024, the university system will enact these changes in compliance with the Alabama Act 2024-34.

This controversial law bans public funding for DEI programs in state agencies, public universities, and public boards of education. Hoping to limit "divisive concepts," this bill blocks any initiatives that claim a certain "race, color, religion, sex, ethnicity, or national origin is inherently superior or inferior" or that it "is inherently racist, sexist, oppressive, whether consciously or subconsciously."

The act further states that schools cannot sponsor events where attendance is gauged by one's identity and requires public universities to "designate restrooms on the basis of biological sex " with the possibility of "certain penalties for violation."

In response, the University of Alabama system plans to replace its now-condemned DEI programs with a new "Division of Opportunities, Connections and Success." The new program is meant to support every student at the University of Alabama, including those who "face educational access and achievement challenges."

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“Differences, including differences of opinion, shared with civility, strengthen our campus community,” University of Alabama President Stuart Bell told the Hill. “Our faculty, staff and students will continue to engage in free speech, exercise academic freedom, and join in wide-ranging thought and discussion on issues that impact our world.”

Alabama follows Florida and Texas as states that have also dissolved DEI programs at universities.