DISC Statement on the State of DEI at the U of A

Greetings All,

We as the Diversity and Inclusion Student Council (DISC) are concerned about the impact of dissolving the Diversity Equity Inclusion (DEI) Office at the University of Arkansas, and its repercussions on students, faculty, and staff. DISC's mission is to identify critical areas of concern and fundamental needs throughout the University of Arkansas campus to implement strategies that promote equity, inclusion, and diversity. 

With the recent legal attacks against the Black Graduate Students Association (BGSA), a registered student organization (RSO), and the allegations of racial discrimination in the BIPOC Mentor Circle Series the situation of how to address DEI related issues has been further exacerbated. The Equal Protection Project, a right-wing group, has filed grievances against various organizations and events across the country, including the BIPOC Mentor Circle Series hosted by the Black Graduate Students Association (BGSA) in collaboration with Walmart and Sam’s Club. These claims against the University of Arkansas highlight the need to have support regarding DEI initiatives available to the campus community. The absence of the DEI Office has caused a lack of guidance for the campus community in navigating these challenges. 

We encourage you to read our letter to learn more  about the state of DEI at the University of Arkansas and the concerns of the Council. We stand in solidarity with The Black Graduate Students' Association and the Arkansas Student Minority Report and we encourage students and RSOs to do the same. 

Sincerely,

The Diversity and Inclusion Student Council