Latest News and Comment from Education

Friday, May 12, 2023

OKLAHOMA UNIVERSITY IN HOT WATER AGAIN AND IT'S NOT THE FOOTBALL TEAM: GO FIGURE

 


OKLAHOMA UNIVERSITY IN HOT WATER AGAIN AND IT'S NOT THE FOOTBALL TEAM: GO FIGURE

It seems like the University of Oklahoma is in hot water again, and this time it's not because of their football team. No, this time it's because of their so-called "radical DEI agenda," which apparently has donors fleeing in droves. But let me tell you, as a proud Oklahoman myself, I am absolutely in support of this agenda.

For those of you who may not know, DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. And let me tell you, we need more of it in this state. Oklahoma has a long and complicated history when it comes to race relations, and it's time we start addressing that head-on.

But apparently, some donors don't see it that way. They're accusing the university of pushing a "DIE" agenda, which is just ridiculous. I mean, come on, folks. It's not like they're trying to kill anyone here. They're just trying to make our state a more welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.

But I guess some people just can't handle change. They're clinging to the past, when things were "simpler" (read: more racist). Well, I'm sorry to burst your bubble, but the world is changing, and Oklahoma needs to change with it.

Now, I know some of you may be thinking, "But what about free speech? What about academic freedom?" And to that, I say: yes, those things are important. But they're not mutually exclusive with DEI. In fact, they go hand in hand.

You see, when we have a more diverse student body and faculty, we get a wider range of perspectives and ideas. And when we have equity, we ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. And when we have inclusion, we create a sense of belonging for all members of our community.

So really, this isn't about pushing some kind of "agenda." It's about creating a better future for all Oklahomans. And if that means some donors are going to take their money elsewhere, well...I guess that's their loss.

Because let me tell you, the University of Oklahoma is doing some amazing things in the realm of DEI. They've established a Center for Social Justice, they've implemented bias training for faculty and staff, and they've even started a program to recruit more underrepresented students in STEM fields.

And you know what? I'm proud to support them. I'm proud to live in a state that recognizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. And I'm proud to be part of a community that's working towards a better future for all of us.

So to those donors who are fleeing from the University of Oklahoma: good riddance. We don't need your money if it comes with strings attached. And to the rest of us: let's keep pushing forward. Let's keep fighting for a more just and equitable Oklahoma. Because at the end of the day, that's what really matters.

Donors flee from 'very disturbed' university in Oklahoma amid radical DEI agenda: 'Better named DIE' https://www.foxnews.com/media/donors-flee-from-very-disturbed-university-in-oklahoma-amid-radical-dei-agenda-better-named-die #FoxNews

OU Giving Day 2023 Sets New University Fundraising Record https://www.ou.edu/news/articles/2023/april/ou-giving-day-2023-sets-new-university-fundraising-record