University of Texas at Austin Fires 60 DEI Staff Following State Law

The layoffs, criticized as attacks on diversity and First Amendment freedoms, come in response to Texas Senate Bill 17 banning DEI initiatives.

The University of Texas at Austin announced the firing of 60 staff members previously involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, following a state law banning DEI initiatives.
The layoffs are seen as a direct result of Texas Senate Bill 17, which prohibits DEI offices and compulsory diversity training at public universities.
Critics argue that the firings represent an attack on First Amendment freedoms and discriminate against staff from marginalized backgrounds.
The closure of the Division of Campus and Community Engagement and the layoffs have sparked outrage among students and faculty, with many fearing the impact on marginalized groups and campus diversity.
Texas, along with Florida and Utah, is among the states that have enacted laws restricting DEI efforts in higher education.

University of Texas at Austin Fires 60DEI Staff Following State Law