Texas Democrats Held Press Call on DEI Bans at Public Universities

AUSTIN, Texas – Today, the Texas Democratic Party hosted a virtual press call to denounce SB 17 – the state MAGA Republicans’ ban on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion funding and services at public universities and colleges in Texas.

In response to SB 17, the largest university system in our state, University of Texas at Austin, terminated more than sixty faculty members involved in DEI services and dissolved programs that foster community within the UT system.

“DEI initiatives extend beyond race and ethnicity, encompassing veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, older applicants, and those from the white working class and rural communities. These bans on programs that protect these communities are nothing short of another rallying cry for the extreme right. Let me be clear – this push to whitewash our schools is a page out of the fascism 101 – and we will continue to fight back,” said Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa.

“It is imperative that our higher education institutions prioritize creating environments where all – not some – but all individuals can thrive academically and professionally. The Texas Legislative Black Caucus and the Democratic Party remain steadfast in our commitment to engaging in dialogue that will advocate for change and safeguarding every student and faculty member's rights, opportunities and higher education,” said Texas Black Legislative Caucus Chair Rep. Ron Reynolds.

“I have seen firsthand the negative impact this decision has had on our community. These actions from the University of Texas will happen at other universities and colleges in our state. Let's be very candid: SB 17 was not designed with women in mind, it was not designed for people of color in mind, and was not designed with students and other minority groups that greatly benefit from the resources that promote inclusivity in mind,” said Mexican-American Legislative Caucus Vice Chair Rep. Christina Morales.

“At the end of the day, this bill is the result of conservative fears that historically disenfranchised communities are finally getting the support they need to succeed in higher education – and they want to keep that from happening to keep themselves in power. UT students desperately need the help of Democratic legislators. This is an issue that is not going to go away – the Texas Legislature and the UT administration have essentially cut away at the heart of our institution with this bill – and we aren’t going to stand by silently while they do it,” said Former UT Student Government DEI Caucus Co-Chair Isabella Feistauer.

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