Idaho Universities in Hot Water Over DEI Law

In Idaho, a heated debate is unfolding over a new law that aims to limit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) courses in higher education. The law, enacted in April and effective since July, prohibits universities from mandating DEI courses that are not directly related to a student's field of study. However, the Goldwater Institute, a conservative think tank, alleges that four Idaho universities are trying to find loopholes in the law. The universities in question—University of Idaho, Boise State University, Idaho State University, and Lewis-Clark State College—have been accused of applying for exemptions for courses that should not qualify. The Goldwater Institute argues that these schools are misinterpreting the law to allow more exemptions than intended. For example, the University of Idaho has received an exemption for a sociology program because of a course titled "Introduction to Inequity and Justice. " The Goldwater Institute contends that the sociology program does not primarily focus on racial, ethnic, or gender studies, and thus should not be exempt.The controversy stems from a memorandum sent by the Idaho Board of Education to the universities, which the Goldwater Institute claims misinterprets the law. The memorandum suggests that if a degree program includes DEI mandates, the courses can be exempt, regardless of the program's title. The Goldwater Institute argues that this interpretation is a "perversion" of the law and has asked the Idaho Attorney General to investigate. The Goldwater Institute's letter to the Attorney General highlights the potential impact on students and taxpayers. The letter argues that students should not be forced to take DEI courses that are unrelated to their field of study, and taxpayers should not fund what the institute describes as "left-wing activism and indoctrination. " The universities involved have directed inquiries to the Idaho Board of Education, which has stated it will cooperate fully with any investigation. The debate raises broader questions about the role of DEI in higher education and the balance between academic freedom and state regulations.