The governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey, signed a bill that would ban diversity, equity, and inclusion in all schools, including public schools, colleges, and state agencies.
They want to stop “divisive talks” like teaching or talking about things that could make someone feel bad about their race or gender. Republicans have said that these DEI programs make things more divisive and push a certain political view. Some people say that getting rid of these programs would be a step backwards because they help people feel like they are included and heard.
The governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey, said, “My administration has and will continue to value Alabama’s rich diversity. However, I refuse to let a few bad actors on college campuses—or anywhere else for that matter—use taxpayer money to push their liberal political movement against what most Alabamians believe.”
Along with this, they have pushed for laws that would make it illegal to talk about sexuality or gender identity in public schools. Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels called this a step back, saying, “This regressive measure undermines the progress we’ve made in creating an inclusive society in Alabama by stifling important conversations and programs that are key to making our state better.”
He went on to say that taking students away from these programs that help them feel included and get help has an effect on their school experiences.
The bill lists eight ideas that cause disagreement, such as the idea that “anyone should accept, acknowledge, affirm, or assent to a sense of guilt, complicity, or the need to apologize based on his or her race, color, religion, sex, ethnicity, or national origin.” It’s also thought to be controversial to talk about whether someone is to blame, fault, or biased because of their race, religion, gender, or national origin.
