OK Governor joins DeSantis, prohibits funds for DEI at state agencies, universities

Republican ​Oklahoma Governor Bans State Funds ⁣for Diversity, Equity, and​ Inclusion Programs

In a bold move, Republican Oklahoma Governor ‌Kevin ⁣Stitt has issued‌ an executive order ​ that⁣ prohibits state agencies and institutions from using state funds, property, or resources to ⁣support any diversity, equity, and inclusion positions, departments, activities, procedures, or programs.

The governor’s office stated that this ban will be implemented to prevent preferential treatment⁤ based on race,‍ color, sex, ethnicity, or national origin. Governor Stitt joins Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, who signed a bill last May that banned the‌ use of funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida’s public colleges and universities.

Governor Stitt emphasized the importance of equal opportunity‌ and shifting the focus away ⁣from‍ exclusivity and discrimination. He stated, “We’re taking politics out of education and focusing‍ on preparing students for the workforce.”

The executive order also prohibits the use of funds to force ‍individuals to participate in or listen to any education, training, activities, procedures, or programming. It also prevents the enforcement of loyalty⁤ oaths⁢ or any ideological viewpoint. Additionally, job applicants are not required to provide a diversity, equity, ⁣and inclusion⁤ statement, and individuals are not compelled to ⁤disclose their pronouns.

Support for ​Governor Stitt’s Executive Order

Race, ethnicity, gender, ⁤and heritage should not be ‍used to discriminate against any person. Yet, discriminatory DEI ⁣programming has done damage on college⁣ campuses—fomenting ‌division between⁢ students, eroding free speech rights, threatening academic freedom, and bloating school bureaucracies, which in ​turn drives up tuition costs. Furthermore, these efforts ⁢do not prepare young women and‍ men⁣ for the diverse workforce ‍that values aptitude, grit, and skill, not a sense ⁤of entitlement driven by victimhood.

We applaud Governor Stitt and the state‍ for taking leadership on removing ‌discriminatory and divisive race-based ‌programming ‍and staffing from Oklahoma colleges and universities. ⁢Every student deserves a campus free from discrimination. Thankfully, legal ⁢protections already outlaw race-and sex-based ⁣discrimination, but this executive order guards against efforts ⁣to bypass‍ those protections.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP

David Safavian, general counsel for the American Conservative Union, expressed his support for Governor Stitt’s executive order, stating that universities and government agencies have become increasingly influenced by a coercive liberal agenda. He commended Governor ‍Stitt for taking action to eliminate ⁣diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Oklahoma’s government.

What concerns ⁣have critics raised about ⁤the⁤ ban’s impact on the ability to attract and retain diverse talent in‍ Oklahoma

​ Ogical or​ political test as a ⁣condition of employment.

The governor’s ‌decision has sparked a heated debate between those who support the ban and those who view it as a step backwards in​ promoting diversity and inclusion. Supporters argue⁣ that the ban promotes equal opportunity ​by ensuring that funds are not used to favor one group over another based on race, color, sex, ‍ethnicity, or national origin.

Opponents of the ban argue that it⁢ stifles progress in creating a more inclusive society. They believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are⁤ crucial for addressing systemic inequities and promoting a more diverse and tolerant workforce. They also argue ‌that​ such programs help to create⁣ a welcoming environment for ⁤all individuals, regardless of their background.

Critics have raised concerns that the ban may ⁤limit​ the ability of state agencies and​ institutions to attract⁢ and ⁢retain diverse talent. Studies have shown that ⁢organizations with diverse teams are more⁢ innovative and have a competitive advantage in today’s​ global economy. By ⁣banning ⁤funds ​for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, some fear ​that Oklahoma may lose out on ‌the opportunity to ⁤develop a diverse and skilled workforce.

Governor Stitt’s executive order has also faced backlash⁤ from civil rights organizations​ and advocates. They argue that such a ban may perpetuate discrimination and discourage meaningful discussions about systemic inequalities. Critics ​argue that ⁢diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are necessary for addressing historic disparities and‍ promoting social justice.

It remains to be seen how this ban on state funds for diversity,​ equity, and inclusion programs will impact Oklahoma. While some applaud⁤ the governor’s decision as a step towards equal opportunity, others⁢ believe that it undermines efforts to create a more inclusive and diverse society. As the debate continues, it is crucial to find a balance ​that promotes fairness and equality ⁤without sacrificing the progress made in advancing diversity and inclusivity.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases