Public universities in Idaho prohibit the establishment of DEI offices and related initiatives.

On Wednesday, the Idaho Board of Education endorsed measures to prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public institutions.

The board unanimously agreed that Idaho institutions cannot mandate specific structures or activities related to DEI after months of discussion.

Institutions must provide equal opportunities for all students regardless of personal identity characteristics, avoid dedicating central offices, policies, procedures, or initiatives to DEI ideology, and not require employees or students to declare their gender identity or preferred pronouns.

The board's definition of DEI ideology is that it places a priority on "personal identity characteristics" (race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or gender identity) over individual merit.

The board banned diversity statements in hiring practices and employment or education decisions based on "personal identity characteristics," in addition to prohibiting mandatory gender identification.

A resolution mandating protections for free speech and expression on campuses was also approved by the board.

The institutions must maintain political neutrality, safeguard the freedom of expression of speakers, ensure the safety of those engaging in constitutionally protected speech, expose students and faculty to diverse perspectives, and establish programs to educate them about their role as a platform for the exchange of ideas.

Universities would still be allowed to promote non-discriminatory activities, offer scholarships, and allow student clubs based on "political or social issues," as the board recognized that the resolution would not hinder these activities.

All changes are expected to be implemented by June 30, 2025.

The board reaffirmed its support for the resolution and expressed optimism about the future of the universities.

Board President Dr. Linda Clark stated that the actions taken by the Board today send a clear message to Idaho students that their institutions are ready to meet their needs upon entering the door. She expressed excitement about seeing the universities implement these resolutions as they continue to work on the issue as a Board.

"Joshua Whitworth, Director of the Office of the State Board of Education, expressed pride in the institutions' efforts to make significant changes through resolutions. He stated that by collaborating with the Governor's Office and institutions, the Board has pledged to ensure that every student receives the necessary support to succeed."

In April 2023, a resolution was adopted that primarily focused on prohibiting diversity statements in hiring. The following year, the resolution was amended to codify the language and later included prohibiting diversity statements in admissions.

Since the Board introduced drafts of the new resolution in November, several universities have already begun scaling back on DEI initiatives.

Boise State University announced via email that the Student Equity Center and the Gender Equity Center were closed during Thanksgiving break prior to the resolution.

"BSU administrators stated in an email that they have heard conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education across the country. The Idaho State Board of Education has created resolutions for Idaho universities, and they have given feedback. Despite this, they remain committed to serving all students while being responsive to their governing board's expectations."