The University of Michigan is considering ending diversity statements: "Potential to infringe on free speech."

On Thursday, the University of Michigan (UM) abolished the need for diversity statements in the faculty hiring, promotion, and tenure process.

The decision of Provost Laurie McCauley was based on the recommendations of an "eight-member faculty working group" that she appointed to investigate the use of diversity statements in faculty hiring and promotion at U-M and other institutions, and to provide a recommendation.

The group of eight experts recommended the end of diversity statements.

"Our university values diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and has made significant progress in providing opportunities for all people. However, we recognize that this work is challenging and complex, and we will continue to refine our approach as we move forward."

The university stated that diversity statements may hinder the freedom of expression and diversity of thought on campus.

The University of Michigan Board of Regents, with a 6-2 Democratic majority, has discussed the future of the bureaucracy associated with DEI initiatives at the university.

On Sunday, Sarah Hubbard, a board member, disclosed to "Fox & Friends" that they have been conducting a thorough examination of the university's DEI initiatives and budget.

Hubbard stated that there is a lack of progress in promoting diversity of thought on campus, and diversity in other ways, as seen in the needle not moving. He has been asking many questions since being elected to the board.

Since 2016, UM has reportedly spent at least $250 million on DEI, with 56% of that amount going towards salaries and benefits for D.E.I. staff across the university's three campuses, according to an internal review conducted last spring by Michigan's central D.E.I. office.

Another member of UM's board of regents, Mark Bernstein, stated to the Times that the funds allocated for DEI could be better utilized for the students.

Benstein stated that he hopes our D.E.I. efforts redirect funding directly to students instead of the administrative bureaucracy.

The board of regents plans to allocate more of Michigan's D.E.I. budget towards recruitment programs and tuition guarantees for low-income students, as reported by The Times.

The board, elected by Michigan voters, oversees the management of UM's finances and operations.

Black students on UM's campus have perceived DEI as a failure.

Despite the institution's diversity programs, one student claimed that UM's efforts were "superficial" and expressed a "general discomfort with naming Blackness explicitly."

The Black Student Union speaker, Princess-J’Maria Mboup, stated to the Times that "marginalized communities are invested in the work of D.E.I., but not in D.E.I. itself."

The Times reported that a survey conducted in 2022 revealed that the pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at UM resulted in a less inclusive environment, with students and faculty members reporting a less positive campus climate and a lower sense of belonging.

No comment was immediately provided by University of Michigan officials when requested by Planet Chronicle Digital.