UNC Administrators Discuss DEI Strategies Despite Legislative Pushback
An undercover video has surfaced, revealing how administrators at the University of North Carolina are adapting their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the face of state and federal efforts to dismantle these policies.
Pasha Miller, assistant director of the Office of Intercultural Exchange at North Carolina A&T State University, shared in the video that, although things have been disrupted, their office, which isn’t strictly under the DEI department, has found ways to keep progressing. “We’ve just worded things differently,” he stated.
These recordings were taken in August and September 2024, shortly after the UNC System Board of Governors voted to effectively ban DEI in favor of what they termed “institutional neutrality,” as reported by The Carolina Journal.
Michael Eccles, director of the Office of Intercultural Affairs, mentioned the need to redefine “diversity” as a “competency” in their communications.
When pressed about their strategy, Eccles confirmed, “Absolutely,” that they were engaging in what might be called “creative naming.” He described his approach as “sensible.”
In the video, Austin Horn, who serves as assistant director of LGBTA programs and services, expressed concern over recent legislation that he felt targeted DEI initiatives. “It’s intentionally vague, and it’s up to each university to navigate this,” Horn noted, indicating a need for caution due to potential litigation.
The journalist conducting the interview sought clarity, asking if the changes were merely to bypass existing regulations. Horn acknowledged the situation and articulated that the law provides “11 rules about what you can and can’t say,” but some universities have chosen to simply disregard these guidelines to continue their programming.
“Yes, that’s very vague,” Horn replied when discussing the legislative language.
Eccles acknowledged the difficulties, stating, “It’s been a little difficult, but we’re still moving forward.” Miller humorously added, “We try not to use [DEI] just to be safe,” illustrating the complexities of the new environment they find themselves in.
Previous reports from earlier this year highlighted universities rebranding their DEI initiatives to sidestep scrutiny from political pressures, a sentiment echoed by attitudes in a recent video featuring UNC Asheville personnel.
Fox News Digital has attempted to reach North Carolina A&T State University for further comments on the situation.
Adam Gillett, president of Media Accuracy, voiced strong opinions on the matter, stating that “North Carolina’s universities have been captured by law-breaking extremists and require fundamental reform.” He insisted that government employees found to be bypassing the law should face serious consequences.
