DEI Under Attack: Examining the Implications of SB 17 on Texas Higher Education Institutions

• In Event: AERA Graduate Student Research-in-Progress Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Opportunities and Challenges for DEI in Education (Table 13)

Abstract

This document analyzes the interpretation, implementation, and impact of Senate Bill 17 (SB 17) on Texas public higher education. SB 17 is one of many national efforts by conservative lawmakers and other interest groups to challenge diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and policies in higher education–one that mirrors trends seen in over 40 similar bills proposed across 22 different states. To better understand this issue, we examine how public research universities in Texas interpret and implement restrictive legislation and how institutional changes, particularly affecting marginalized campus members, have occurred due to these interpretations and responses. As a result of this examination, we provide recommendations for higher education institutions and institutional partners to preserve the values of DEI.

Author

• Javier Ezekiel Ramirez, University of Texas at Austin