University of California Ends Diversity Statements in Hiring Process

The decision follows federal pressure, financial concerns, and debates over the role of diversity initiatives in higher education.

The University of California announced it will no longer require diversity statements from job applicants, effective immediately.
UC leadership cited financial pressures, including an 8% state budget cut and potential federal funding losses, as factors in the decision.
The Trump administration has increased scrutiny of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, threatening funding cuts to universities perceived as non-compliant.
UC Provost Katherine Newman stated that diversity statements may shift applicants' focus away from their expertise or prior experience.
Despite the policy change, UC leaders emphasized their commitment to fostering diversity and serving communities with varied backgrounds and perspectives.