America Could Learn From Black Ala. Democrats' Response To Anti-DEI Legislation

As all Black folk have quickly come to learn, ” DEI” has become not only a euphemism for the favorite slur of racists near and far, but a target of GOP legislators nationwide.

The latest example of this is The University of Texas at Austin laying off about 60 people who used to work in diversity, equity and inclusion programs, as first reported bythe Austin American-Statesman and later confirmed by UT Austin President Jay Hartzell in an email.

“I recognize that strong feelings have surrounded SB 17 from the beginning and will shape many Longhorns’ perceptions of these measures,” Hartzell wrote, referring to state legislation that led to the layoffs. “It is also important that this continues to be a welcoming, supportive community for all.”

Senate Bill 17, which bans DEI initiatives at Texas’ public colleges and universities, was passed last year and went into effect in January. State Sen. Brandon Creighton ® had warned institutions that they could see their funding frozen if they did not comply.

As a Texan, I am disturbed by the legislation but not shocked that the open hostility toward Black people has been codified into law. However, when it comes to the matter of “what now,” I hope that Texans and others being placed into this predicament by Republicans look to Alabama on how to respond.

During this most recent Black History Month, in what can only be classified as a very 2024 move, a white lawmaker introduced a bill to ban taxpayer-funded diversity, equity and inclusion departments in Alabama. Speaking to reporters about his legislation, state Sen. Will Barfoot ® said: “We shouldn’t be forcing or teaching to children that one race or sex or religion is better than the other. Those are just some of the divisive