In a controversial move, UNC Chapel Hill has decided to reallocate its entire DEI budget to bolster public safety efforts on campus, igniting a fierce debate among trustees and students alike. This decision, rooted in the aftermath of recent anti-war protests, underscores the escalating tensions between calls for enhanced security and the pursuit of a more inclusive academic environment.
UNC Shifts DEI Budget to Policing
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is redirecting its $2.3 million diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) budget to public safety and policing. This decision follows a unanimous vote by the board of trustees.
Student Protests Spark Budget Change
Trustees cited recent anti-war protests on campus as a factor in reallocating DEI funds to campus police. The $14 million public safety budget will now see an increase, while the DEI department faces potential cuts and job losses.
Protests and Police Response
Student protesters recently set up a campus encampment to show solidarity with Palestine against Israel’s actions in Gaza. The protests led to 36 detentions, with most released and six charged with trespassing.
Enhanced Police Presence on Campus
UNC campus police, supported by multiple university and state police units, responded to the protests. The heavy police presence and use of pepper spray alarmed some council members, students, and faculty.
Trustees Defend Police Actions
Despite criticism, board members defended the police response to the protests. Trustee Kotis, in a recent op-ed, urged the General Assembly to support law enforcement and ensure resources for handling campus emergencies.
Mission of Diversity and Inclusion
The UNC office of diversity and inclusion aims to foster a welcoming environment for all students, faculty, and alumni. This mission is stated clearly on the school’s website.
Board Member Criticizes DEI Programs
Marty Kotis, vice-chair of the board’s budget and finance committee, believes DEI programs foster division rather than unity. He expressed a desire for more dialogue and diversity of thought on campus.
Concerns Over DEI’s Role
Board member Woody White has criticized DEI initiatives as mechanisms for enforcing radical ideologies. In a March interview, he argued that these programs promote discrimination and division under the guise of addressing past injustices.
Commencement Message Reflects Tensions
The day before the DEI budget announcement, UNC Chapel Hill’s commencement featured a stern warning on football stadium screens. The message threatened removal and arrest for anyone refusing to comply with requests to put down signs.
