UNC Pushes Aside DEI While USNA Embraces
There was a time when the US military was a leading force in promoting equal opportunity, particularly in combating racial discrimination. Unfortunately, that era has ended.
While the rest of the nation progresses by evaluating individuals based on their character rather than skin color, the US military seems to be increasingly focusing on hiring and promotions based on immutable characteristics.
Unlike the US military, the nation as a whole is not regressing as much, so let’s begin with an example of progress.
This week, DivThu will feature a mix of good and bad news.
In academia, significant changes are happening. It’s not just the University of Florida moving away from promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, traditionally left-leaning, is also making strides, thanks to support from Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. They plan to hit DEI initiatives where it hurts most – the budget.
North Carolina’s public university system is considering a vote to change its diversity policy. Recently, the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees voted to reallocate $2.3 million from diversity programs to public safety and policing. This decision could result in the closure of the university’s diversity office.
A notable comment from Kotis highlights the broader perspective: “It’s important to consider the needs of all 30,000 students, not just the 100 or so that may want to disrupt the university’s operations. It takes away resources for others.”
Last month, the statewide board’s Committee on University Governance voted to revise its DEI policy for 17 state schools, potentially eliminating DEI roles. The full board is scheduled to vote on this policy change next week. If approved, the change will be immediate.
Consider UNC-CH’s $2.3 million annual budget for diversity programs. This likely includes various expenses, but let’s take that figure at face value. Multiply this by the number of universities with similar DEI offices.
Now think about the US military’s service academies. They spend far more than $2.3 million each year. However, the real issue isn’t the money. The true cost lies in undermining merit and equality by hiring based on immutable characteristics. In hiring, a zero-sum game, giving preferential treatment to one group inherently discriminates against others.
The real impact of DEI is not on the budget but on the institution’s core values.
The US Naval Academy might want to consider adopting a new slogan:
“We’re not seeking the best; we’re chasing metrics. Along the way, we’re normalizing discrimination.”
Written by CDR Salamander
