key populations | Campus Safe Words

TERM: key populations
RISK LEVEL: high

Definition

“Key populations” refers to specific groups identified as particularly important for targeted outreach, support, or intervention, often based on shared characteristics such as race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, or health-related factors. In higher education, the term is frequently used in strategic planning, grant writing, public health initiatives, and DEI programming.

Why It’s Risky

The phrase “key populations” can raise political concerns in states that have restricted identity-based programming or DEI initiatives, such as Florida’s Stop W.O.K.E. Act and Texas Senate Bill 17. Critics argue that identifying “key populations” often signals a prioritization based on identity categories, which may conflict with laws emphasizing neutrality, merit, and equal treatment. When used without neutral, outcome-based definitions, the phrase can imply preferential treatment, social engineering, or ideological advocacy. In politically sensitive environments, references to “key populations” in official documents can invite scrutiny, audits, or funding threats from lawmakers, trustees, and watchdog groups who view the terminology as evidence of politicized institutional priorities.

Common Critiques

Critics contend that “key populations” is a euphemism for identity-based targeting, which can undermine fairness and meritocracy. They argue that emphasizing certain groups for recruitment, funding, or support based on demographic traits risks creating a two-tiered system of opportunity. In conservative-led states, lawmakers have warned that such terminology fosters division and promotes grievance-based frameworks incompatible with the mission of public higher education. Opponents also assert that use of “key populations” often lacks clear, objective criteria, leading to accusations of political favoritism or lack of transparency. In some cases, institutions referencing key populations have faced demands to demonstrate that programs and resources are accessible to all students equally, without privileging specific identity groups. Overreliance on the term without legal or mission-based justification may lead to reputational damage or compliance challenges.

Suggested Substitutes

Target audiences identified by educational need (in strategic plans);
Groups served based on mission-aligned goals (in outreach efforts);
Populations facing barriers to academic success (in support services);
Students identified through data-driven assessments (in grant proposals);
Communities engaged through institutional partnerships (in public programs)

These alternatives emphasize neutral, performance-based criteria and align support efforts with institutional missions.

When It May Still Be Appropriate

“Key populations” may be appropriate in federal grant applications, health-related initiatives, or academic research projects where the term is defined according to clear, outcome-based measures. Use cautiously and provide transparent explanations when identity categories are referenced to ensure compliance with applicable state laws and public expectations.

NOTES: Avoid using “key populations” in general policy documents or public messaging without specifying neutral, measurable criteria. Prioritize language that focuses on academic need, opportunity, and institutional mission to reduce political risk and maintain transparency.