Attacks destroy efforts for equity and inclusion

LANSING, Mich., April 1, 2025 — The University of Michigan announced abruptly last week that they are closing the doors of their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) offices and ending their strategic DEI plan. This step comes after Trump’s attack on programs across the nation. 

“This is a disheartening situation and an act of tolerance of intolerance by the university. As chair of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus, I know how serious these decisions are; the impact will have major consequences on our society in the coming decades,” said state Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw). “The Trump administration is working its hardest to white wash our institutions, culture and history any chance it gets. Stay vigilant, my friends, the common theme of the current Republican agenda is distortion of knowledge, perspective and truth. They are working to strangle any avenue of diversified thought or opportunity. From the arrests of protesters to the dismantling of the Department of Education — Trump is making it clear that he will use his power to punish. This is way beyond politics — this is personal.”

U of M has a long history of promoting diversity. In 1870, it was one of the first institutions to allow women to enroll and has since been seen as a pioneer for its DEI programs.

“The state of Michigan is strong because of our commitment to welcoming and uplifting all people. Regardless of your race, gender, class or ability — whoever you are and wherever you come from, you have a place here in Michigan and you deserve the opportunity to learn and grow.” said state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing ). “To say I am disappointed in the University of Michigan for this decision would be an understatement. As a public institution, the University of Michigan benefits from millions in state dollars, and the decision to close its DEI office is a slap in the face to the taxpayers who help support university operations and the values we work so hard to promote here in our state.”

Other universities across the nation are taking steps to eliminate DEI offices, programs and curriculum at their institutions with threats mounting from the Trump Administration to freeze funding. Last month, Columbia University removed its DEI statement from its website. Additionally, the Musk and Trump Administration dismembered the Department of Education, causing chaos and uncertainty to the future of education in America. 

“From dissolving the Department of Education to the uptick on squashing dissenting voices, now to this with DEI offices — it’s too much and it’s not right,” said state Rep. Jimmie Wilson, Jr. (D-Ypsilanti), vice chair of the Workforce and Education Committee. “People should be celebrating diversity, learning and trying to bring equity and understanding into our education institutions AND our communities. This perpetual hate tears people and progress down.”

“The University of Michigan’s decision to shut down its DEI programs is not just disappointing — it’s harmful. Students who rely on DEI-supported resources are now left without that critical support. This move directly impacts underrepresented students who bank on these initiatives, making higher education less accessible and equitable,” said state Rep. Donavan McKinney (D-Detroit). 

The University of Michigan’s decision to halt its DEI programs has led to significant changes affecting students and faculty. In response, students and faculty have organized protests on campus, voicing concerns over the impact of these cuts.

“The University of Michigan’s move to shut down its DEI efforts isn’t just a policy shift — it’s a direct blow to the students who rely on these initiatives to succeed academically, professionally, and personally. Students are the ones paying the price for this decision. Scholarships are disappearing, support programs are being dismantled, and resources that helped many navigate college are gone. As a University of Michigan alum, I’m heartbroken and disappointed,” said state Rep. Tonya Myers Philips (D-Detroit).