Conservative circles are intensifying their opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and policies, perceiving the current moment as pivotal in their ongoing campaign.

Strategies to Counter DEI

At a recent symposium organized by the Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C., titled "Seizing the Moment to Defeat DEI," conservative activists and researchers convened to discuss strategies aimed at countering DEI initiatives. They view a convergence of political, legislative, and public sentiment factors as ripe for challenging what they view as entrenched DEI norms.

The gathering provided a platform for panelists to articulate concerns and propose courses of action, particularly within higher education settings.

Challenges in Higher Education

During the panel focused on DEI in higher education, speakers highlighted perceived shortcomings and challenges stemming from DEI programs across law schools, medical schools, and teacher training programs. They argued that such initiatives have led to problematic outcomes and advocated for reforms in accreditation standards and federal policies governing higher education institutions.

Kristina Rasmussen, Executive Director of Do No Harm, emphasized the importance of raising awareness and opposition to critical race theory and DEI initiatives within medical schools. She urged stakeholders to seize the moment and speak out against what they see as encroachments on academic freedom and professional standards.

Nicole Neily, President of Parents Defending Education, echoed these sentiments, pointing to instances of increased campus antisemitism and attributing it to DEI programs. Neily called for a comprehensive overhaul of DEI initiatives, arguing that they have failed to address underlying issues while exacerbating tensions on campuses.

Jay P. Greene, Senior Research Fellow at Heritage's Center for Education Policy, outlined a multifaceted approach aimed at undermining DEI efforts on college campuses. He emphasized the importance of targeting financial resources and personnel supportive of DEI initiatives, citing recent instances where pressure led to resignations of college administrators.

Greene's strategy also involves leveraging congressional hearings and public scrutiny to amplify opposition to DEI programs and prompt institutional changes. He highlighted successful endeavors where concerted efforts led to tangible outcomes, indicating a growing momentum in challenging DEI norms within higher education.

The Road Ahead

Despite facing formidable challenges, conservative activists and researchers remain undeterred in their quest to counter DEI initiatives. They plan to continue mobilizing resources, building alliances, and advocating for policy changes at both the state and federal levels. The upcoming presidential election and ongoing legislative efforts to curb DEI programs offer further avenues for advancing their agenda.

Conservative circles are actively engaged in a concerted effort to challenge and dismantle DEI initiatives, viewing them as detrimental to academic freedom and undermining institutional integrity. As the debate over DEI in higher education intensifies, stakeholders on both sides of the aisle are gearing up for a protracted battle over the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in academic settings.