YWCA Columbus Reacts to DEI Elimination at OSU

YWCA Columbus is deeply disappointed in The Ohio State University’s decision to eliminate its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Center for Belonging and Social Change. We also condemn the federal anti-DEI executive orders and the state's Senate Bill 1 — which would effectively eliminate DEI efforts from higher education if passed — because they deter institutions from pursuing equity and inclusion-centered initiatives for fear of backlash. 

These state and federal actions have perverted fundamental equal protections under the Constitution and the law, and YWCA Columbus applauds the courageous organizations pushing back — both through the courts and other forms of resistance. We urge corporations, foundations, and other prominent institutions not to preemptively end their diversity programs and funding priorities, especially as subsequent court rulings have blocked the orders' immediate implementation.

YWCA Columbus knows that diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are the backbone of resilience and opportunity, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to these ideals. Now, more than ever, we call for fearless leaders in every corner of society to ensure that the democracy our founders promised is possible for all of those who come after us — undoubtedly including the generation of young minds pursuing higher education.