University of North Carolina Repeals DEI Policies, Emphasizes Neutrality and ‘Equality of Opportunity’
The University of North Carolina (UNC) has decided to repeal its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in an effort to implement new guidelines focused on neutrality.
The leadership board responsible for policy implementation at UNC voted on Thursday to eliminate the requirement for the university’s 17 schools to have a DEI officer and to monitor campus diversity.
Under the previous guidelines, DEI officers were tasked with promoting and advancing diversity and inclusion at all institutional levels through various training programs. The new policies, however, assert that the university is committed to “equality of opportunity in education and employment” and emphasizes free speech, academic freedom, and the representation of diverse viewpoints.
“The University shall continue to ensure that diverse persons of any background, from North Carolina and beyond, are invited, included, and treated equally,” the new policy states.
UNC President Peter Hans commented on the changes, according to News & Observer, stating, “Non-discrimination, institutional neutrality, free expression, and academic freedom are all mutually reinforcing concepts and values.”
“We are here to serve all, not just those who agree with us. When these principles are faithfully held, they allow diversity in all forms to thrive,” Hans added.
“It’s good for college students to encounter liberal ideas, to become familiar with the best forms of progressive thought our society has to offer,” he continued. “It’s good for college students to encounter conservative ideas, to appreciate traditional perspectives and hear strong right-of-center arguments.”
In a related move, the UNC-Chapel Hill board of trustees voted earlier this month to cut funding for the DEI department and reallocate those funds to campus police. UNC-Chapel Hill budget committee vice chairman Marty Kotis explained, “We need more unity and togetherness, more dialogue, more diversity of thought.”
The rule change comes as a growing number of conservative states have attempted to prevent public universities from dedicating time and funds to DEI policies that prioritize a student and/or staff member’s race over their qualifications.
