Article Summary –
The University of Texas at Austin has reportedly laid off at least 60 staff members previously involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roles, following a statewide ban on such programs in Texas public colleges. The layoffs and the closing of the Division of Campus and Community Engagement, previously known as the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, have raised concerns about the support available for marginalized groups. UT has been accused of overcomplying with the anti-DEI law, Senate Bill 17, with students and professors fearing its impacts on recruitment, retention, and graduation rates for marginalized student groups.
University of Texas Begins Massive Layoffs Following Ban on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Programs
Following a statewide ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public colleges, a Texas university has started extensive staff layoffs. State Sen. Brandon Creighton, a Republican, cautioned Texas university administrators last week about compliance with the new anti-DEI Senate Bill 17. The University of Texas at Austin has now dismissed at least 60 staff members who previously worked in DEI-related roles, according to people familiar with the situation who spoke to the Austin American-Statesman.
Effects of Anti-DEI Laws on Higher Education
This action is part of an escalating series of attacks on programs benefiting marginalized groups in higher education. Anti-DEI laws in red states like Texas and Florida have closed safe spaces for LGBTQ students and spurred concerns about staff and students moving to more liberal states.
Details of the Layoffs at the University of Texas
The University of Texas has not confirmed the number of eliminated staff positions. Information from insiders suggested that over 60 people lost their jobs, with 40 of them from the Division of Campus and Community Engagement. The layoffs will become effective in 90 days or more. The university did not respond to a request for comment.
The Closure of Campus and Community Engagement Division
UT Austin is also closing the Division of Campus and Community Engagement, formerly the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement. University President Jay Hartzell explained in an email to the UT community that the school made changes before January 1st to comply with SB 17, and that more work would be needed. The remaining programs will be redistributed among other divisions, and funding will be redirected to “support teaching and research.”
Effects of Anti-DEI Laws on University Programs
The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that since 2023, over 80 DEI-related bills have been introduced in state legislatures across the U.S, primarily aimed at dismantling these programs. DEI programs have been most threatened in Florida and Texas, where Republican governors enacted strict laws preventing taxpayer dollars from supporting DEI initiatives.
The Impact of SB 17 on University Practices
In Texas, SB 17 prohibits DEI offices, initiatives, and employees from performing these functions at Texas public universities and colleges. Creighton warned administrators that non-compliance would result in legal action and potential freezing of state funding. UT Austin is making changes to comply with the law, including closing the Division of Campus and Community Engagement and ending programs such as the Gender and Sexuality Center.
Student Reactions to the Changes
Students are expressing concern over the changes. UT Austin senior Bibi Macias said that the Community Engagement Division has been a critical resource for her, and its loss will have a significant impact on students’ experiences on campus. As a first-generation student, Macias also worries about the loss of support for historically underrepresented and marginalized students.
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