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The University of Michigan is currently evaluating potential changes to its diversity program, which is known for being one of the most prominent advocates of diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. With critics raising concerns about the program’s effectiveness and its influence on campus culture, the university is exploring new strategies to address these issues.
Written by Nicholas Confessore
The University of Michigan, known for its strong support of diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education, is considering revisions to its program as colleges nationwide prepare for Donald J. Trump’s second term as president and potential Republican opposition to these initiatives in government and academia.
Members of the board in charge of the university mentioned in discussions that they anticipate the board will propose restrictions on diversity statements when making decisions about hiring and promotions. Additionally, they may consider reallocating a larger portion of Michigan’s D.E.I. budget towards recruitment initiatives and financial aid for students from lower-income backgrounds.
Michigan is considering changes that would make it one of the first selective public universities to address diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) internally instead of due to external pressure. The board, which is elected by state voters and mostly operates through agreement, is primarily made up of Democrats with a 6-2 majority. The state constitution gives the regents full control over the university’s finances and overall supervision of the institution.
The next meeting of the regents is scheduled for December 5th. However, recent conversations between the regents and other university officials have led to strong opposition on Michigan’s campus. Diversity, equity, and inclusion administrators are working to defend their work and maintain their funding amidst criticism.
A large group of supporters of diversity, equity, and inclusion came together on the Ann Arbor campus for a rally on Monday.
During a speech, Pragya Choudhary, a junior, expressed that she believes no one in the audience thinks the D.E.I. initiatives at the university are flawless. However, she also emphasized that everyone present understands that without these initiatives, the university would be in a worse state.
The discussions on campus have highlighted a general lack of understanding about the purpose of the D.E.I. program and the intentions of the regents. Some faculty and students are concerned that the regents may completely withdraw funding for the school’s D.E.I. initiatives, although this does not seem to be a possibility. There are also accusations against the regents for potentially eliminating the school’s Go Blue Guarantee, which covers full tuition for low-income students from Michigan. However, the regents have stated that they actually plan to enhance this program.
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