The University of Virginia has shut down its diversity, equity, and inclusion office after pressure from Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Trump administration. The move is part of a broader push to end what conservatives call “illegal discrimination” in education.
Youngkin praised the decision, saying DEI programs have strayed from their original goals. He argued that focusing on equal outcomes hurts excellence. The Republican governor believes merit should decide opportunities, not race or gender. His appointees on UVA’s board voted unanimously to close the office.
President Trump’s recent executive order targeting transgender athletes in women’s sports was also celebrated by Youngkin. He mentioned a Virginia swimmer who lost a championship spot due to competition with a biological male. The governor called this a victory for fairness and Title IX protections.
Democrats and civil rights groups have fought back. Former Virginia Governor Doug Wilder criticized Youngkin’s approach, saying he lacks expertise on racial issues. Legal challenges are underway against Trump’s order, but Youngkin remains confident.
UVA’s closure of DEI offices includes banning similar programs under new names. Scholarships, admissions, and hiring will now focus on merit alone. Youngkin claims this returns the university to Thomas Jefferson’s vision of equality.
Other Virginia schools may follow. The College of William and Mary faces pressure to scrap its diversity office. Youngkin’s administration replaced “equity” with “opportunity” in state job titles, signaling a policy shift.
Critics warn this rollback ignores systemic barriers facing minorities. They say DEI initiatives ensure campuses welcome all students. Youngkin dismisses these concerns, calling diversity of thought America’s true strength.
The battle over DEI reflects a larger cultural divide. Conservatives see it as restoring common sense, while liberals view it as erasing progress. With Trump’s backing, Youngkin’s actions could inspire similar moves in red states nationwide.
