Oklahoma Governor Defunds DEI Programs at Public Universities and State Agencies

The executive order, criticized by various groups, mandates compliance by May 31, 2023, and prohibits the use of state resources for DEI initiatives.

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has signed an executive order defunding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) offices and programs at public universities and state agencies, joining Florida and Texas in blocking such initiatives.
The order prohibits universities from using state dollars, property or resources to fund DEI offices and programs, and mandates them to 'eliminate and dismiss all non-critical personnel.'
State agencies and higher education institutes are required to comply with the order by May 31, 2023, and must submit a certificate of compliance and a report to the governor and the speakers of the state House and Senate.
The University of Oklahoma’s Black Emergency Response Team (BERT) issued a statement saying that the executive order raises 'significant concerns,' arguing that DEI departments, programs, and entities play a pivotal role in providing a safe and inclusive space for minority and marginalized communities on higher education campuses.
Chief of the Cherokee Nation Chuck Hoskin criticized the governor for issuing an 'ill-advised' decision that is 'trying to erase Native Americans from history.'