Iowa universities grapple with states new DEI law [Video]

AMES, Iowa (KCCI) – Public universities in Iowa are deciding how to interpret a new law banning diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

The law bans DEI from the public universities and requires the Board of Regents to “conduct a comprehensive study and review of the diversity, equity and inclusion programs and efforts of each institution of higher learning under [its] control.”

Iowa State and Northern Iowa eliminated different DEI offices and positions earlier this year.

The University of Iowa shifted its DEI office to comply with the new law.

Students with the Center for LGBTQIA plus Student Success say they’re only allowed to plan through the end of the semester because they’re not sure if the organization will be around next year.

“It’s scary,” Silvera Dudenhoefer said. “(Because) when you do not intentionally give us the ability to build our communities full of acceptance for each other and our identities, that makes …