“It’s like a shot to the chest,” college student reacts to anti-DEI bill

Kentucky Senate, House pass bill to ban DEI programs at public colleges, universities, sending it to Governor Beshear.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The final version of House Bill 4 is now heading to Governor Andy Beshear’s desk. The bill would ban diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at public colleges and universities, sparking concerns among some students.

If House Bill 4 becomes law, public colleges and universities across Kentucky would be required to remove DEI offices and positions by June 30. It would also prohibit hiring, admissions, and scholarships based on race, sex, religion, and national origin.

Some students say DEI programs have been beneficial.

“I’m a Black African American student,” said Malachi Cromer, a student at Eastern Kentucky University. “It’s harder for us to get into inclusivity things, such as like programs, sports, things like that. I personally am in agreeance with the DEI term,” said Cromer.

Meanwhile, lawmakers were passionate Wednesday night about the decision to pass the bill, both those in favor of House Bill 4:

“We have been struggling in those of all races, that are Americans, have been struggling for freedom,” said Sen. Gex Williams (R-Verona). “Freedom is not free. It’s been a long legal battle, and it’s been a long conflict. I am glad that we’ve arrived at this place, where we can move forward,” said Sen. Gex Williams

And those against it:

“It bans our efforts to be inclusive, and when does being inclusive become a bad thing?” said Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong (D-Louisville).

The Senate passed the bill with a 32-6 vote.

Cromer described the decision as, “a shot to the chest honestly, like it’s like, it’s now making it more harder for those individuals to get the stepping stool that they need – the right push in the right direction.”

Universities across the state have been responding; the University of Kentucky announced it would disband its Office for Institutional Diversity after discussions with state policymakers.

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) shared a statement with ABC 36 about the possibility of House Bill 4.

“Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is reviewing and assessing federal and state guidance on DEI. Our employees work hard to provide support services that help all our students cross the finish line at graduation and obtain their degrees. We will continue to work tirelessly every day to meet our students where they are, provide them with world-class academic programming and support their journey.” – EKU