Victims of the War on DEI: Honoring A Black Male Resource Center

• In Event: Braving and Caving in Combative Terrains: Responding to Anti-DEI Discourse and Legislation

Abstract

"DEI" and related concepts have historically served as a battleground for political opponents in the context of United States postsecondary institutions. This tension reached a crucial point with executive action and institutional follow-up during the 2024-2025 academic year. This research takes a look at the impacts of a mid-western university's decision to close a Black male resource center due to political pressure. Utilizing critical ethnography, the voices and experiences of the students and staff associated with this center are brought to the forefront, demonstrating feelings of loss, gratefulness, frustration and appreciation for the center.

Author

• Quentin Francis, The Ohio State University