University of Southern Alabama
University of Southern Alabama University of Southern Alabama

Another higher learning institution has shuttered it's diversty, equity and inclusion (DEI) program in the Yellowhammer state ahead of a new controversial law banning such offices taking effect this October.

The University of South Alabama will close thier DEI division and eliminate two staff positions, according to a statement from the schools spokesperson, Lace Crawford, obtained by AL.com. The president of the school, Jo Bonner, wrote in a letter to students on August 2 that the school will "use this moment to expand our engagement efforts on campus throughout the community and across the region through volunteerism, service learning and community-based research."

USA is now the sixth school in the state to close it's DEI offices since Governor Kay Ivey signed the ban on "divisive concepts" in March, which takes effect on October 1. Jacksonville State, UA System Campuses, and Auburn University also disbanded their programs.

Across the nation, universities are disbanding, rebranding or rethinking DEI programs in response to political pressure from Republicans, as well as passed or pending legislation in thier respective states.

Last week, the University of Missouri announced it will dissolve its DEI division in a preemptive measure to mitigate political and budgetary risks.

UM President Mun Choi explained the decision during a news conference on July 31, citing a series of policy changes at the university, including the removal of diversity hiring statements and the end of race-conscious scholarships.

Several states --- including Florida, Utah, Texas, Alabama and Iowa --- have enacted legislation targeting DEI programs in public universities.