Protest at University of Texas at Arlington Against Attacks on Diversity Programs

Students at the University of Texas at Arlington gathered in protest on Wednesday, decrying what they called an “attack on diversity programs” in response to recent policy changes in Texas. The messages scrawled onto poster boards emphasized that diversity is not a crime and that attacks on it must cease.

About two dozen students chanted “No hate! No fear! DEI is welcome here” as they voiced their concerns over the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies at public universities in Texas. The protest was led by sophomore Lesly Torres Guerrero, a member of the Progressive Student Union, who highlighted the importance of diversity in educational settings.

The demonstration comes in the wake of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s directive forbidding DEI policies in employment at state agencies and universities. The University of Texas System responded by suspending all new DEI policies at its schools, prompting similar actions at other institutions like Texas A&M University and the University of Houston.

Critics of the policy changes argue that DEI initiatives are essential for creating inclusive environments that benefit both students and faculty. They warn that the removal of such policies could impact educational quality, faculty research, and ultimately, the overall learning experience for students.

Despite the concerns raised by students and faculty, some policymakers argue that certain DEI efforts have strayed from their original intent and may be imposing requirements that raise concerns among policymakers. However, supporters of DEI initiatives stress that diversity encompasses a wide range of programs that support various marginalized groups on campus.

The protest at UT-Arlington culminated in students delivering a list of demands to university President Jennifer Cowley, urging her to take a stand on legislative bills that could restrict transgender college athletes and ban critical race theory and DEI policies in higher education. The students also called for an administrative plan to combat such moves and ensure a more inclusive campus environment.

As the debate over DEI policies continues, students and faculty across Texas universities remain committed to advocating for diversity and inclusion in higher education.