At the Nebraska State Capitol on Monday, a hot debate took place regarding a new bill that could remove Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices from public universities in the state.
This bill, introduced by State Senator Loren Lippincott, aims to stop DEI practices at Nebraska’s public colleges and universities. According to Lippincott, DEI policies are limiting free speech and academic freedom. He believes that schools should focus on free thought, academic excellence, and giving equal opportunities to everyone based on merit.
“LB 552 ensures that Nebraska’s public colleges and universities remain centers of free thought, academic excellence, and equal opportunity,” Lippincott said during the hearing.
However, many people at the hearing disagreed with the bill. In fact, the public hearing saw more people standing against the bill than those supporting it.
Arguments Against the Bill:
Opponents argue that removing DEI offices will make Nebraska universities less welcoming and less inclusive.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln student Veronica Sargbah voiced her concern, saying:
“Pushing bills like this further pushes away people who look like me, people who serve students like me.”
Sargbah emphasized that such changes would create a more hostile environment for minority students and faculty members. She urged lawmakers to speak directly to the students who would be affected by this decision:
“The solution is simple—talk to the students you’re affecting. Understand where they’re coming from. Be willing to have a conversation.”
Supporters of the Bill:
On the other side, supporters like Terri Cunningham-Swanson believe that the way DEI is applied is problematic.
“DEI prioritizes identity over merit,” she argued, suggesting that current DEI programs focus more on race and background rather than talent and hard work.
Supporters say that by eliminating DEI programs, universities can maintain fairness and avoid making decisions based solely on someone’s identity.
Concerns Over Faculty and Student Retention:
Another student, Carter Grier, raised worries that the removal of DEI offices could cause professors and talented students to leave Nebraska’s universities. He believes many faculty members and students prefer learning and working in places where DEI is valued.
“I really don’t think this accomplishes anything at all. It could make both the campus and surrounding areas feel less safe,” Grier stated.
Federal Investigation in the Background:
Adding more tension to the discussion, it was revealed that the U.S. Department of Education is currently investigating several universities, including the University of Nebraska-Omaha, over possible race-based exclusion practices.
Interestingly, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) already shut down its DEI office last summer, sparking debate even before this bill was introduced.
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