A Critical Policy Analysis of State Legislative Attacks on DEI Initiatives in Higher Education

• In Event: Defending Diversity: Navigating Legislative Attacks on DEI in Higher Education

Abstract

As of July 2024, 12 states in the United States have passed 14 laws prohibiting public colleges and universities from developing programs and activities deemed as promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This critical policy analysis examines these 14 laws to identify the core themes among these legislative attacks on DEI initiatives. Utilizing a typology of threats, the analysis reveals that these laws portray DEI efforts as threats to resources, symbolic values, and the moral integrity of privileged groups. Paradoxically, many of these laws frame their attacks principles of equality, diversity, and objectivity. This practice reflects a neoliberal conception of equity and the concept of interest convergence, maintaining the white interests and perpetuating the systemic inequity status quo.

Authors

• Yiting Chu, University of South Florida - Tampa

• Weijia Wang, University of Virginia