The Iowa Board of Regents approved recommendations to eliminate college diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs that are not required by law or accreditation standards, Higher Ed Dive reports. In order to examine DEI initiatives at Iowa’s public universities—which conservative lawmakers have alleged violate free speech—the board formed a DEI study group in March. Students have been vocal in their criticism of the report, claiming it is too ambiguous to strike a balance between the interests of students and the concerns of legislators. The University of Iowa has set up a task force to review its DEI initiatives.
In an op-ed for The Hechinger Report, Amanda Wilkerson and Shalander Samuels argue that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are vital in promoting civic and political engagement among Black students. For political candidates campaigning at HBCUs, engaging with students in smaller venues, learning from them during visits, and paying genuine attention to their priorities and concerns is crucial. Candidates should maintain voter engagement beyond Election Day, the op-ed argues, empowering a generation of politically engaged students.