Oklahoma money shouldn't fund diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, Gov. Stitt says

“It says we are going to stop using state dollars for DEI officers,” Stitt said. “Let’s literally focus on the kids. Use those monies to educate kids instead of trying to preferential treat people based on their race.”

He said it will shift the focus to educating students instead of “politics and indoctrination” in colleges and universities.

The executive order prohibits state agencies from using state funds, property or resources to grant or support diversity, equity and inclusion positions, departments, activities, procedures or programs to the extent they give preferential treatment based on race, color, ethnicity or national origin over another.

The order prohibits mandating education, training or programs to the extent it grants preferences based on race, color, sex, ethnicity or national origin.

It directs state agencies and higher education institutions to review diversity, equity and inclusion elements and, if necessary, restructure or eliminate functions that are not necessary for compliance, accreditation, or student and employee support services intended to support success broadly.

The executive order has some exemptions for colleges and universities.

Stitt said he wants every person graduating from high school to be college ready or career ready.

Colleges and universities need to spend fewer tax dollars and student tuition dollars on things that don’t get kids ready for the work force, he said.

“We need to stop sending six-figure salaries to DEI staff and more on preparing students to get that job and to have a successful career,” Stitt said. “With my executive order, we are going to take politics out of education, and let’s just help kids.”

He said people should not worry about what students look like or how they identify.

Stitt said he believes in equal opportunities for everybody.

Getting ahead will be based on a person’s merit and hard work, Stitt said.

The governor signed the executive order at a Capitol press conference surrounded by lawmakers.

Former State Superintendent Janet Barresi and Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs staff were also present.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters did not attend the press conference but issued a statement.

“DEI rightfully should be known as discrimination, exclusion and indoctrination,” Walters said. “It does not represent American values. Gov. Stitt is right for taking a strong step to protect Oklahomans from these discriminatory programs.

“We must not distort important historical events that push liberal indoctrination, and our curriculum must not teach identity politics.”

The report directs agencies and higher education institutions to certify compliance with the executive order and issue a report to Stitt and lawmakers by May 31 on DEI policies and practices and any changes as a result of the executive order.

Angela O. Caddell, associate vice chancellor for communications for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, said that “we are reviewing the governor’s executive order, and the state system of higher education will comply.”

Some Democratic state lawmakers issued statements critical of the Republican governor’s executive order.

“Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies are put in place to deter discrimination of marginalized communities,” said Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater. “The fact that the governor sees this in reverse further illustrates the fact that he’s not experienced true discrimination. We need to let our universities lead the way and work towards better educating all students.”

Meanwhile, Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, said he has filed four bills to eliminate DEI practices at colleges and universities.

Standridge also held an interim study on the matter.

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