Trump's push to end DEI reaches the graduation stage for college students

Trump's push to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programs is now reaching graduation

stages at colleges as students prepare to turn their tassel. From government agencies to big box retail stores and now universities, institutions are breaking

down DEI initiatives to stay in line with the Trump administration's directive

The University of Kentucky ended its special ceremony for students who are the first in

their family to attend and graduate college. In April, the university announced it would also end

graduation events honoring black and LGBTQ plus students. These events were in addition to

ceremonies encompassing all UK students. In a statement to the Associated Press, a university

spokesperson said, the success and support of our students is a principle and purpose that is

incredibly important to us. Everything we do on this campus, we do with that in mind as our goal

adding they are complying with federal law. In January, Trump signed an executive order to NDEI across the nation

That directive led to the Education Department warning schools a month later

to eliminate any programs based on race or identity or risk losing federal aid

The Dear Colleague letter said they are legally required under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 In a response some universities began scaling back scholarships admission initiatives and programming The University of Kentucky was on the list of more than 50 schools being

investigated by the Department of Education's Civil Rights Office for discriminatory violations

In March, the office announced these schools were associated with the PhD project, which helps

doctoral students with networking opportunities based on their degree. The issue, according to

the Office of Civil Rights is that it's only specific to certain racial groups. The Trump

administration's push aligned with a bill passed by Kentucky lawmakers this year to ban all diversity

programs in public universities within the state. Governor Andy Beshear vetoed the bill, but the

Kentucky General Assembly overruled him. The law is set to take effect during the summer

Other universities are also taking a similar approach to Kentucky. A community college in

Harvard University entered their years-long tradition of affinity ceremonies, including for Black, Latin, and Arab students

Their cancellation comes at the same time as the Trump administration investigates reports

of anti-Semitism and lack of compliance with removing DEI initiatives from their institution

For Straight Arrow News, I'm Kaylee Carey. Find more straight-fact, unbiased news updates on san.com or download the Straight Arrow News mobile app