Senate bans DEI in higher education, as Dems say it will ‘do absolutely nothing’

The North Carolina Senate passed a measure on Wednesday to ban DEI in higher education, but not without an extensive debate from Democrats who were entirely opposed to the legislation.

Supporters of Senate Bill 558 argue that there is an influx of divisive concepts and practices being embraced on college campuses. The legislation prohibits UNC System schools and community colleges from promoting discriminatory policies and practices.

“Unfortunately, college campuses are plagued with ‘DEI’ initiatives,” said Senate Leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham. “We want campuses to be welcoming environments for all students. It’s time for our higher education institutions to focus on their core missions, and this bill will do just that.”

Under the measure, public colleges and universities would be required to eliminate offices and staff dedicated to DEI initiatives. The bill prohibits promoting “divisive concepts,” such as the idea of systemic racism or moral culpability based on race or gender. Institutions would be barred from requiring faculty, staff, or students to affirm any DEI-based beliefs. Additionally, SB 558 would eliminate processes for reporting incidents described as “offensive or unwanted speech.”

The bill passed in a 28-18 partisan vote, with Democrats arguing it would “do absolutely nothing” during the floor debate.

“It would make sure people understand that the contents of this bill should not be understood to actually ban the genuine practices of diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Sen. Lisa Grafstein, D-Wake. “Very technical amendment, I know of no opposition. It just changes the title of the bill. The short title of the bill would be ‘An Act to do Absolutely Nothing.’”

She proceeded to read her entire proposed change, calling out the “disastrous education policies” of the North Carolina GOP and the “general chaos” brought by the Trump administration.

The legislation now awaits consideration in the House, where a similar DEI proposal has been scheduled for a floor vote twice, though Republicans have delayed the vote.

The North Carolina Democratic Party has organized demonstrations against the bill and had filled the gallery to protest on Wednesday, and Democrats complained online when speaker of the House Destin Hall, R-Caldwell, again postponed a floor vote.

Remember, this is the same woman who pledged to defund the police in 2020.

Co-sponsored a bill to allow gender transition surgeries for minors.

Voted against banning biological men from competing in women’s sports, and introduced legislation to ban plastic utensils. #ncpol https://t.co/3IRKN4mF6R

— Rep. Brenden Jones (@BrendenJonesNC) April 10, 2025

Another education-related bill passed the Senate on Wednesday in a unanimous vote. Senate Bill 507 would expand the automatic enrollment in advanced courses in K-12 schools to include English Language Arts courses.

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