At a Glance
- Idaho Board of Education unanimously bans DEI initiatives in public universities
- Universities prohibited from requiring DEI training or using diversity statements in hiring
- Student success centers based on DEI ideology to be closed by June 30, 2025
- Decision made despite 80% of student comments opposing the resolution
- Move aims to prioritize individual merit over race, sexual orientation, religion, or gender identity
A Landmark Decision Reshaping Campus Culture
The Idaho Board of Education has taken a bold stance against the prevailing winds of academia, voting unanimously to prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across the state’s public universities. This decision marks a significant departure from the increasingly entrenched DEI practices that have become commonplace on college campuses nationwide.
The resolution, which followed intense debate and criticism, bans the establishment of DEI-focused offices and initiatives. It also prohibits universities from requiring DEI training or using diversity statements in hiring and admissions processes. This comprehensive approach effectively dismantles the institutional framework that has been built around DEI principles in recent years.
Idaho Board of Education Faces Vote on Anti-DEI Resolution
The state’s Board of Education is expected to ban campus offices, centers and policies “dedicated to #DEI ideologies.” Some students and faculty are outraged. https://t.co/JAuZAyeOMH pic.twitter.com/FBQieMDkwk
— Inside Higher Ed (@insidehighered) December 18, 2024
Immediate Impact and University Response
The effects of this decision are already being felt across Idaho’s higher education landscape. Idaho State University and Boise State University have preemptively closed certain student centers, moving towards what they describe as a more inclusive model. However, this proactive approach has not been without controversy, with some board members criticizing the universities for acting before the board’s official decision.
“I am gravely concerned that students and community members have felt devalued,” complained Boise State University President Marlene Tromp. “We remain committed to each and every one of them, wherever they are, wherever they’re from.”
University presidents have expressed disappointment and concern over the policy, fearing negative consequences for campus “inclusion.” The resolution mandates that universities revamp their student success programs by June 30, potentially leading to the closure of offices and centers for women, LGBTQ students, and students of color at major institutions across the state by June 30, 2025.
Prioritizing Merit Over Identity
The board’s decision reflects a philosophical shift towards prioritizing individual merit over considerations of race, sexual orientation, religion, or gender identity. This aligns with a growing sentiment among conservatives that DEI initiatives have gone too far, potentially fostering division rather than unity on college campuses.
“I believe our actions as a Board today are a strong signal to all Idaho students that our institutions are prepared to meet whatever needs they have when they walk through the door,” said Board President Dr. Linda Clark. “I am looking forward to seeing our universities implement these resolutions while we continue working on the issue as a Board.”
While the resolution bans institutionalized DEI programs, it does allow for non-discriminatory activities, scholarships, and student-led organizations based on political or social issues. This nuanced approach aims to strike a balance between promoting inclusivity and avoiding what critics see as the divisive aspects of DEI ideology.
A Contentious Decision in the Face of Opposition
The board’s decision comes despite significant opposition from the student body. The State Board received over 700 student comments, with a staggering 80% opposing the DEI resolution. This disconnect between student sentiment and administrative action underscores the complex and often contentious nature of the DEI debate in higher education.
Critics of the decision argue that identity-based centers provide essential resources and support for underrepresented students. Concerns have been raised about the impact on various student groups, including Native American students, though the board has clarified that cultural events and scholarships for these groups can continue.
A Potential Domino Effect
Idaho’s decision to ban DEI initiatives could have far-reaching implications beyond its borders. As one of the first states to take such a comprehensive stance against DEI in higher education, Idaho may inspire similar actions in other conservative-leaning states grappling with these issues.
The move by Idaho’s Board of Education represents a significant pushback against what many conservatives view as an overreach of progressive ideology in academia. As the debate over DEI’s role in higher education continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Idaho to see how this bold decision plays out in practice and whether it achieves its stated goal of creating a more merit-based and inclusive educational environment for all students.
