The article discusses the ongoing impact of Trump's executive orders targeting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education. Initially launched nearly five years ago, these orders fueled anti-civil rights legislation at the state level and prompted a reaction from academic institutions aiming to protect themselves. Despite the eventual overturning of these orders, over 55 universities are currently under scrutiny. This environment has forced universities, like the University of Michigan, to impose limits on DEI and academic freedom, revealing a growing concern that future attacks may be more severe than before.
Nearly five years ago, then-President Donald Trump released his first anti-diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) executive order, sending shock waves through the academic community.
Despite its false claims and eventual overturning, the executive order provided a playbook for right-wing state legislators to develop laws that are not so much anti-DEI as they are anti-civil rights.
Today, the higher education ecosystem remains shocked, but hardly surprised, and many institutions have self-imposed restrictions on academic freedom and DEI.
Over 55 universities are listed for investigation and action by the Trump administration; the Department of Education has been downsized; and more executive orders are in the works.
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