The University System of Georgia (USG) has announced significant policy changes aimed at institutional neutrality and a refocus on foundational American principles. The USG Board of Regents has recommended new and revised policies that include banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, enforcing political neutrality, and requiring instruction in America’s founding documents across its 26 public colleges and universities.
Neutrality on Social and Political Issues
Under the proposed policies, USG institutions will adopt a position of neutrality on political and social matters unless directly connected to the institution’s core mission. This measure is aimed at removing ideological influence from academic environments.
The Board of Regents stated:
“USG institutions shall remain neutral on social and political issues unless such an issue is directly related to the institution’s core mission.”
This move reflects a broader national debate on the role of politics in higher education, with critics arguing that DEI programs often enforce ideological conformity.
Banning DEI Practices in Admissions and Hiring
One of the most impactful changes is the prohibition of DEI tactics in admissions and employment processes. The policy explicitly bans ideological tests, affirmations, or oaths, such as diversity statements, as conditions for admission or hiring.
“No applicant for admission shall be asked to or required to affirmatively ascribe to or opine about political beliefs, affiliations, ideals, or principles, as a condition for admission,” the policy reads.
Hiring practices will also focus solely on a candidate’s qualifications and ability to perform essential job functions, stripping away requirements that could be seen as ideological.
Highlights of the Ban
- Admissions: No applicant will need to declare or agree with political or social ideologies.
- Employment: Candidates will be judged on knowledge, skills, and role-specific competencies, without consideration of ideological alignment.
- Orientation and Training: Institutional training programs will exclude DEI-related materials or discussions.
Constitution-Focused Education
In addition to the DEI ban, the USG will require all institutions to include education on America’s founding documents. This mandate aims to promote understanding of the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and other critical historical texts.
The new curriculum requirement emphasizes the importance of civic education and the historical context of the nation’s founding principles.
A Growing National Trend
The USG’s decision aligns with a growing movement among conservative-led states to reform higher education policies. Critics of DEI programs argue that such initiatives can limit free speech and promote a singular ideological viewpoint. Supporters of DEI counter that these programs foster inclusivity and diversity in academic settings.
USG’s move is part of a broader national conversation, with states like Florida and Texas recently implementing similar bans on DEI initiatives in higher education.
Impact on Georgia’s Higher Education
The proposed policies could reshape the landscape of higher education in Georgia. Proponents argue that they will preserve academic freedom and eliminate perceived biases in admissions and hiring processes. Opponents fear these changes might deter diverse candidates and faculty from joining Georgia’s public institutions.
The revisions are expected to take effect in the coming months, pending approval by the Board of Regents.
