During this legislative session, a bill was introduced that will dismantle diversity programs statewide. In late January, H.B. 261 was approved by the House, despite having virtually no data to support its validity. The bill will limit access to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives in Utah’s public education systems and government.

Ultimately, H.B. 261 depends on the superficial notion that minorities unfairly receive differential treatment in public organizations. State legislatures banned the title “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” itself and demanded it be replaced with language that includes all students. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Katy Hall (R-Davis, Weber Counties), hopes it will influence institutions to judge individuals on their own merits. Instead, H.B. 261 perpetuates ignorance of BIPOC individuals’ lived experience in Utah and hinders progress toward equity in education.

Inequity in Education 

From K-12 schools to public colleges, a history of systemic discrimination plagues public education. Many Utah schools still experience the effects of racial and socioeconomic segregation. DEI initiatives can combat this by facilitating supportive and diverse environments and offering resources.

Diversity in education is also known to improve student success. Standardized testing scores show a trending gap between Black and white students. In integrated schools, as much of a quarter of this disparity is reduced and students are 68% more likely to enroll in a four-year university.

The evidence clearly shows that diversity in education must be a priority. Access to quality education is crucial, but providing that access also means acknowledging the system’s history. On average, minority students in K-12 education experience lower funding and higher teacher turnover. The notion that minority students are on an elevated playing field against their non-minority counterparts is ignorant.

The system was built to work against BIPOC individuals and DEI initiatives are crucial in repairing the impacts that persist.

Creating Safe Spaces 

The purpose of DEI initiatives is largely to create positive communities for minority students. A recent protest against H.B. 261 at the University of Utah was led by students who highlighted the value of these programs. They referenced DEI initiatives as crucial for maintaining “a sense of belonging for students who might otherwise feel marginalized.”

University of Utah student Alicia Velazquez emphasized the vitality of these safe spaces and referenced her experience as a BIPOC student.

“For many people of diverse backgrounds, [inclusive support groups] are the only place they can meet and converse with people that share their identities,” Velazquez said. “Seeing members of diverse identities [be celebrated and recognized] makes me understand that I’m someone on campus and that I have a group of people that can support me.”

Utah is a predominantly white state and is highly influenced by religious culture. Students outside of the majority are thus more susceptible to feeling alienated when attending state schools. DEI initiatives may help these individuals feel more comfortable and succeed in their academic endeavors. Homogenous student populations can be stressful and lonely for some, and the importance of DEI programs is creating safe spaces for these students.

Erasing Experiences 

Utah House Minority Leader Angela Romero was especially concerned regarding H.B. 261 during its debate. She fears that the bill will erase people, identities and experiences. To say there is a level playing field for all students is grossly inaccurate at best. In reality, it reeks more of willful ignorance.

Systems of discriminatory practices that still plague our education system and government today cannot be ignored. Public institutions must bridge gaps and create safe spaces for historically marginalized citizens.

Velazquez reiterated the importance of prioritizing diversity in both schools and the workplace. “

In a world with eight billion other people, it’s important to understand and talk to people that are different than you — it makes you a better individual,” Velazquez said.

Utah legislators seem to be deliberately disregarding the vitality of diversity. The rhetoric that has been used to justify this idea is particularly concerning and cannot be ignored. Community members, particularly those involved in the public education system, must join in vocalizing its significance. Republican lawmakers must likewise realize that diversity initiatives are not a threat to Utah’s majority demographic. Rather, these programs offer hope and inclusion for students who deserve to feel safe.

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@oliviaghufford