Texas Senate Measure on Diversity Hits Home

By Gisselle Rueda, Skyline Reporter

ALPINE – Sul Ross vows to promote the broad principles of diversity, equity and inclusion despite the Texas Senate’s measure banning it at all state-funded institutions. 

Even though Sul Ross was forced to change the name of it’s Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Director Savannah Williamson said she plans to uphold the principles of her former office. 

“DEI is an important part of Sul Ross’ values and mission as an institution of higher education,” Williamson said. “We do not need a DEI office to recognize or promote values of inclusion and diversity.” 

The Sul Ross Executive Committee was forced to shut ODEI after the Republican-dominated Senate did away with initiatives that promoted diversity, equity and inclusion, which they say indoctrinates students into left-wing ideology and forces universities to prioritize diversity in hiring over merit.  

The Office of Multicultural Affairs is in room 212 of the University Center, the same room that housed the Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. University officials said they wanted to ensure there was still a hub for multicultural resources.  The OMA offers snacks, charging stations, a resource library, and de-stressing activities and tools.  

Along with the change, Williamson reflected on the impact of DEI initiatives.  

“I would say we know that cultural diversity is proven to enrich and enhance the educational experiences for all students,” Williamson said.  

The ODEI’s main goal was to improve the social and cultural understanding of students. DEI is not only beneficial to college students but also to those in the workforce, she said. Adequate mental health and academic achievement is linked with the feeling of belonging in students.  

To learn more about OMA, stop by UC 212 or visit their website at https://www.sulross.edu/office-for-multicultural-affairs/