Oklahoma Governor Signs DEI Funding Bill

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt (R) recently approved a bill aimed at funding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education. This signing event took place on Tuesday, and back in May, Stitt ceremonially signed SB 796 alongside U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon. Their meeting included a discussion on education at the Dove Science Academy, a public charter school, as part of a nationwide tour to emphasize state-level education reforms.

In her remarks, McMahon highlighted Oklahoma’s success in prioritizing education on a state level. “Oklahoma has proven the value of bringing education back to the state, along with schools that emphasize literacy and equip students with what they need to succeed in the workforce,” she noted. McMahon also mentioned that the new laws reflect a commitment to merit-based education, steering clear of what she termed “radical ideology.”

SB 796 establishes guidelines that prevent educational programs from prioritizing factors like race, gender, or ethnicity. It additionally prohibits the requirement of ideological statements, loyalty pledges, and declaration of personal pronouns in employment contexts.

Representative Toni Hasenbeck (R), who chairs the House committee, expressed her enthusiasm about the bill. “Oklahoma universities should not be a place where taxpayer dollars support ideological agendas,” she stated. “They must focus on academic excellence, preparing students for their careers and civic responsibilities.” She emphasized that the bill preserves academic freedom and aligns educational institutions with their fundamental missions.

Representative Dennis Crosswhite Hader (R), who was also present during the signing, echoed similar views. He stated that while the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion may sound appealing, the underlying philosophy can lead to an artificial preferential system that detracts from the primary aims of higher education. “Our students need to concentrate on academics and workforce training without being burdened by extra graduation criteria,” he said.

Crosswhite Hader went on to clarify that while teaching these concepts isn’t off the table, using taxpayer money for them is inappropriate. He expressed gratitude to the bill’s author, Senator Adam Pugh (R), and acknowledged McMahon’s presence at the signing as a positive gesture.