Staff Reports
The University of Michigan’s expensive and sprawling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program is not only mired in controversy, but it seems its creators have also developed a talent for self-erasure. The program, which sounds more like a bizarre social experiment than an actual initiative, has employed a cadre of specialists whose educational backgrounds resemble a buffet of woke ideologies, but rather than fostering unity, it’s appeared to do the opposite.
Among the talent on staff is an assistant professor who specializes in “trans Latina” theories centered around “queer potentiality.” One might wonder how exactly these subjects contribute to the educational experience of diverse student bodies. Another faculty member is on a mission to dissect Aristotle’s theories through an “antiracist and queer” lens. Apparently, the age-old wisdom of a Greek philosopher needs a modern makeover—who knew?
The program also displays a certain affinity for intersectionality, exploring how the shared experiences of Jews and Muslims allegedly unite them through something called “queerness.” It’s hard to imagine how these academic discussions manifest—likely similar to attempting to unite oil and water.
Word has it that, when faced with substantial backlash regarding this pricey program that has reportedly fueled division rather than community, the university opted for a low-key exit strategy. A now-defunct staff directory has left the public scratching their heads. John Sailer, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, highlighted that the DEI directory has vanished from the university’s website like a magician’s rabbit, leaving behind only a landing page in its wake.
Look at this news article from The Daily Caller: Defying ‘Racist-Cisgenderism’: Meet The DEI Staff University Of Michigan Tried To Disappear From The Internet https://t.co/IkdAwHG3fc
Make DEI programs/hiring/education illegal.— Johnny Bravo (@johnny_bra6888) December 5, 2024
The financial implications of this DEI endeavor are staggering, with approximately $30.68 million being dished out annually since 2016, totaling around $250 million. And despite all that cash, racial and gender relations at the university have seemingly hit rock bottom, with complaints about race and religion skyrocketing. Students and staff appear less inclined to mingle with those who differ from them, suggesting the program has had the exact opposite effect of its intended goal—like putting out a fire with gasoline.
Now, with the program under fire from all sides, the Board of Regents is gearing up to discuss possible defunding or restructuring of the DEI office. Set to meet as soon as November 5, the board will be determining if this financial black hole is worth the investment—or if it’s time to scrap the whole idea and perhaps focus on something that actually creates dialogue instead of division. One can only hope they choose wisely, and maybe have a good laugh about the absurdity of it all once this circus is finally in the rearview mirror.
