On April 17, the UNC Board of Governors Committee on University Governance swiftly voted to repeal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in N.C. public universities– a decision that will affect several jobs at UNCW and around the state. The Board of Governors repeals Section 300.8.5, Policy on Diversity and Inclusion Within the University of North Carolina, and Section 300.8.5[R], Regulation on Diversity and Inclusion Within the University of North Carolina, that would be replaced by the current pending policy that will be voted on in May.

Equity, diversity and inclusion is defined as a framework that promotes the fair treatment and full participation of all individuals, especially those that have been historically underrepresented or subject to discrimination due to their background, identity, disability and other factors.

Florida and other states have passed bills to eliminate campus funding to programs and activities that advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion or promote political and social activism. Republicans have maintained control of the state legislature for the past decade with only one registered democrat on the Board of Governors.

From the current policy that is being passed, UNC schools shall adhere to and comply with G.S. 116-300 (3a) to maintain institutional neutrality. UNC schools are not allowed to provide training or consulting services regarding matters of “contemporary political debate on social action” in terms of “view on social policy” or “political controversies of the day.” These terms can be found in the G.S. 126-14.6(c)(1)–(13), G.S. 116-300 (3) and (3a). The policy also includes information regarding student-led organizations. It will not affect student led organizations’ ability to express their voice using university facilities or their ability to receive student activity funding for their organization’s stated mission, so long as the organizations are pursuant to the “written policies or regulations of each constituent institution for use of university facilities and resources.” More information on the free expression policies for the UNC System can be found in Code 1300.8 of the UNC Policy Manual and Code. Information on Student Organization Funding can be found on the UNCW Student Government Association website.

UNCW Black Student Union is the only student organization that has made a recent statement on their Instagram about the DEI policy change. “UNC Wilmington’s Black Student Union acknowledges the initiatives of DIVERSITY EQUITY AND INCLUSION as the core of our organization. We are extremely disturbed by this blockade put in place to stop our moves toward equity in higher education. DEI encompasses individual strengths and weaknesses, out different perspectives as well as cultivate unity and respect.”

UNCW declined to comment on potential policy change, stating, “The university doesn’t typically comment on pending policy considerations by the UNC Board of Governors. UNCW will continue to support and educate individuals of all backgrounds, beliefs, income levels and life experiences.”