Ohio DEI protections in education are lost

In Ohio, Senate Bill 1 bans DEI programs in public colleges, prohibits making institutional statements on “controversial” topics, and introduces a post-tenure review process. This bill also bans strikes by full-time faculty and requires colleges to publish syllabi with instructor qualifications and contact information. The legislation aims to ensure intellectual diversity and protect students from potential faculty strikes. 

Key aspects of Senate Bill 1:
  • Bans DEI offices and programs:
    Higher Ed Dive reports that the bill prohibits DEI departments and offices, as well as DEI initiatives in job descriptions and scholarships. 

  • Restricts institutional statements:
    The bill bars colleges from making statements on “controversial” topics like climate policy, electoral politics, and DEI. 

  • Focus on intellectual diversity:
    The bill requires colleges to demonstrate a commitment to multiple, divergent perspectives on public policy issues, including in course approvals and departmental goals. 

  • Post-tenure review:
    Inside Higher Ed reports that the bill allows for immediate “for cause” post-tenure reviews for faculty who repeatedly fail to meet performance expectations. 

  • Prohibits strikes:
    The bill bans strikes by full-time faculty. 

  • Syllabus requirements:
    Colleges must publish syllabi with instructor qualifications and contact information. 

  • Required US history course:
    A required U.S. history course with prescribed readings like the U.S. Constitution is also part of the bill. 

Background:
  • Ohio’s DEI ban is part of a broader trend across the country, with other states also enacting similar legislation. 
  • The bill has faced opposition from students and faculty, according to AP News.