AUSTIN, Texas — A group of lawmakers gathered at the Texas Capitol on Tuesday to denounce efforts to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies in the state.
Recently, the University of Texas system, Texas A&M University and the University of Houston announced they were halting and reviewing their DEI hiring processes after a directive from the governor.
Last month, Gov. Greg Abbott’s chief of staff sent a memo to state and university leaders telling them using DEI initiatives in hiring is illegal. Diversity advocates say DEI programs are not used in hiring but are meant to advance equal opportunity for minority populations.
DEI policies have recently come under attack from several conservative leaders around the U.S., including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.