diversity/equity efforts | Campus Safe Words

TERM: diversity/equity efforts
RISK LEVEL: extreme

Definition

“Diversity/equity efforts” refers to institutional programs, policies, or initiatives aimed at increasing demographic representation (diversity) and addressing unequal outcomes or barriers to success (equity). In higher education, the phrase is often used to describe hiring initiatives, curriculum reforms, student success strategies, and resource allocation intended to support historically underrepresented groups.

Why It’s Risky

This phrase is now among the most politically sensitive in higher education. Under Executive Order 14173 and related federal directives, the Trump administration has mandated that agencies eliminate DEI-related requirements and bar DEI considerations in hiring, contracting, and grantmaking. Institutions that include references to “diversity/equity efforts” in federal grant proposals or project narratives may face heightened scrutiny, disqualification, or revocation of funding. The same risks apply to state-level reviews in jurisdictions with anti-DEI laws, such as Florida’s Stop W.O.K.E. Act or Texas Senate Bill 17. Use of the phrase in public documents, strategic plans, job postings, or training materials may signal ideological alignment with identity-based frameworks that are no longer supported—or are actively penalized—under current federal and state oversight.

Common Critiques

Critics contend that “diversity/equity efforts” often prioritize demographic categories over academic qualifications or operational effectiveness. In hiring and admissions, the term is viewed by some lawmakers as a cover for race- or gender-based preferences. In curriculum or programming, it is criticized for embedding contested theories—such as systemic oppression or intersectionality—into university functions without broad consensus. Under the Trump administration’s policies, DEI-related efforts are framed as partisan, wasteful, or unlawful. Several federal agencies, including the NIH and EPA, have suspended or canceled DEI-focused grants and restructured funding criteria to prohibit identity-based programming. Critics also argue that “diversity/equity efforts” expand administrative bureaucracy without improving measurable outcomes and foster ideological conformity over free expression. Institutions perceived to promote such efforts have faced legislative investigations, budget freezes, or loss of federal research funding.

Suggested Substitutes

Equal opportunity initiatives (in HR, admissions, or compliance documents)
Access and achievement programs (in student success or outreach)
Supportive academic environment (in teaching and learning contexts)
Participation-focused outreach (in community or pipeline programs)
Institutional effectiveness and compliance (in accreditation or policy documents)

These substitutes prioritize legal defensibility and performance-based goals.

When It May Still Be Appropriate

Under current federal policy, “diversity/equity efforts” should not be included in federal grant applications, unless directly quoting legacy language from older program announcements. Even in academic contexts, use extreme caution and clearly separate any mention of diversity or equity from federal funding streams. In private foundations or peer-reviewed research, usage may be acceptable if appropriately justified and isolated from federal deliverables.

NOTES: Review all funding applications, public documents, and program descriptions to ensure alignment with current executive and legislative directives. Avoid bundling diversity and equity language into performance goals, hiring priorities, or outcome metrics unless clearly supported by state law or internal policy. Emphasize academic excellence, institutional mission, and fair access in all forward-facing communications.