To eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in a state where the Asian American population has grown eightfold in the past three decades, and where the North Carolina population continues to become more multi-racial and multi-ethnic, has dangerous implications for many communities. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are crucial in building towards a safe and welcoming community for not just Asian Americans, but all underrepresented groups.
At this critical juncture in our country, even just the phrase “DEI” is being weaponized to attack marginalized communities and pit us against each other. Our students and our communities deserve an education where dialogue and diversity are promoted, and DEI initiatives are built for that exact purpose.
Our universities should be protecting programs that increase the quality of education that students receive, not dismantling them to raise funds for those who would use violence against students at a peaceful protest, as the university police did earlier this month.
Many of our staff and community members are alumni of UNC or have close ties to the UNC community. We are disappointed that the Board of Trustees has chosen to harm and punish students, and it is particularly disheartening to see that while this Board includes two Asian American members, our community was still not represented by this decision. The actions of the Board of Trustees will diminish the quality of the UNC education.