COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – A draft resolution proposing the dissolution of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs at public universities and colleges in Idaho was presented to the Idaho State Board of Education. This proposal follows online rumors about the University of Idaho’s plans to eliminate their DEI programs.
The resolution has generated mixed reactions among students. Some believe that DEI offices are essential, while others think their removal might promote more equality on campuses.
Michael Habermann, a senior at the University of Idaho, supports the resolution. “I think it would be a very positive impact to listen to people rather than base it off of any sort of skin tone or sexuality or religion or race or gender,” he said.
Board member David Turnbull echoed similar sentiments during Thursday’s board meeting. He emphasized the importance of ensuring students feel supported through various groups, saying, “Ensuring that students don’t feel alienated but know that they have that support wherever that be, whether it’s a Native American institute or some club that might be focused. It’s ensuring that these types of activities so can represent the body of students.”
Turnbull believes that eliminating DEI programs will not remove essential student groups but will instead open up resources for the entire student body. However, board member Kurt Liebich expressed concerns about the resolution’s language.
“As I read it, the language to me could be interpreted so broadly that our institutions might go out and eliminate things that at least me as a board member can’t support,” Liebich said. He stated his desire for more input from colleges before voting on the resolution. “It’s just that one on DEI that needs another that level. I need another level of input from the institutions before I get comfortable with supporting it, so I’ll leave it there.”
While some students worry about losing valuable resources for marginalized groups, others, like Habermann, hope the changes will create more opportunities for all students. “So, creating an equal playing field is really good right, because I think that everyone should be given the same chance it’s the American dream,” Habermann added.
No action was taken at Thursday’s meeting, leaving the future of DEI programs at Idaho state colleges uncertain.
