A number of bills in the Utah Legislature challenging diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are getting pushback from Democrats, higher education institutions, the NAACP Salt Lake Branch and businesses.
NAACP Salt Lake Branch President Jeanetta Williams urged lawmakers to vote no on HB451.
"It is important that our communities of color feel safe, supported and valued. Everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive regardless of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity or background. Diversity, equity and inclusion are essential components of a healthy society, and we must work together to ensure that they are at the forefront of our efforts," the statement reads.
Utah Tech Leads, a group advocating for the state's tech industry, said a recent hearing about one of the bills "brings a fullness to efforts sweeping across the nation to reverse course on achievements of diversity, equity and inclusion." The organization said— which would have prohibited diversity, equity and inclusion offices and officers in higher education before the sponsor pulled it — is anti-business and urged lawmakers to oppose it and similar legislation.
"Do we still have a long way to go? Absolutely. And are we behind other states? Yes. But if we're comparing ourselves to ourselves, we're definitely making progress," Romero said, adding that the recent surge of specific job positions dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives is evidence of Utah's progress.
Salt Lake Community College President Deneece Huftalin has had a similar experience during her career in higher education.
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