The University of Memphis’ Office of Multicultural Affairs has been closed due to a law passed that dismantles the department’s diversity, equity, and inclusion office on Friday. 

The University of Memphis said the following in a statement:

Public Chapter 458, known as the “Dismantling DEI Departments Act,” is now law in Tennessee. This state law and recent executive orders prohibit public institutions of higher education, like the University of Memphis, from maintaining, authorizing or supporting programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion. As a result, the Office of Multicultural Affairs has been closed.

While the University of Memphis does not operate in a way that discriminates against students, faculty, staff or our overall community, the parameters of the Tennessee law require us to reevaluate our operations to ensure that we remain in compliance with how we support students, nonacademic programs and some academic support programs.

Our commitment remains unchanged — to provide a successful outcome for every student.”

The University of Memphis’ Student Government Association said in a social media post:

“While this change is significant, it is necessary for the University to maintain eligibility for ongoing federal and state funding for student grants, scholarships, and related programming. The continued support of our students remains a top priority.

We recognize the importance of the services and community that the Office of the Multicultural Affairs has provided, and we are actively working to support students, student organizations, and student leaders during this transition. Our goal is to ensure that all students continue to feel valued, heard, and supported.”

The University of Memphis follows other colleges and universities across the state that are reviewing and eliminating discriminatory DEI policies in order to follow federal rules and regulations. The University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Belmont University in Nashville, and Vanderbilt University are all currently undergoing reviews of their own policies. 

Steve Gill is the Publisher of TriStar Daily.