Texas Bans Diversity and Inclusion Programs in Public Universities

Texas lawmakers have approved Senate Bill 17, which would require public universities in the state to dismantle their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, programs, and training within the next six months. The bill also prohibits institutions from mandating DEI training as a condition of employment or admission and orders all hiring practices to be "color-blind and sex-neutral." Critics argue that DEI programs stoke racial division and prioritize social justice over merit and achievement, while educators fear the legislation could put state universities at risk of losing federal and private grants.