Diversity Chief Fired by Right-Wing Onslaught

UT’s conservative leadership grilled for dissolving DEI department, silencing its advocates and disregarding academic success for students of color

Three months ago, I received heart-wrenching news: my position, along with my colleagues' in the Division of Campus and Community Engagement (DCCE), was abruptly terminated. The reason? SB 17, a despicable law that bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from state-funded institutions.

Within hours, President Hartzell issued a carefully crafted statement announcing the end of the DCCE. It was a strategic move to silence any potential criticism or pushback. As a communicator in the DCCE, I was ordered to ignore media requests and keep quiet about the detrimental impact of SB 17, denying us the chance to defend the importance of our work in higher education.

"I want conservatives to know: DEI programs are critical for academic success."

• Sinn, former assistant director of communications, DCCE

In her statement, Sinn highlighted the economic importance of these programs, arguing that our society benefits from young, enterprising, and compassionate professionals. She challenged the stereotypical belief that systemic marginalized students have it easy, entering UT with catered privileges. Instead, she affirmed that every student in the DCCE worked incredibly hard and faced additional obstacles, including hate, bias, and imposter syndrome, a psychological phenomenon affecting racial minorities' self-confidence.

The now-defunct DCCE programs effectively supported these students, guiding them towards graduate studies in medicine, STEM, law, and other crucial fields. Despite the life-changing impact of these programs, they were wrongfully accused of taking opportunities from other students. Sinn refuted this claim, emphasizing that programs for low-income students only enhance the university experience for all, without detracting from existing resources.

“If you’re feeling impassioned about this issue, ask yourself why. Is it because you’re afraid of competition on a leveled playing field?”

• Sinn

Sinn concludes with a powerful challenge to UT's leadership and conservatives alike: dig deep and confront your fears. Embrace DEI in higher education if you genuinely want UT to "change the world."

Sources:

• Sinn's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinn-assistant-director-of-communications/
• Original article: https://www.dailytexanonline.com/2022/06/01/opinions/why-amı-breaking-my-splıț-over-utis-dei-decısion/