EAST LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan State University (MSU) is finding itself under the federal microscope, but not for research grants or scandals involving Mel Tucker or Larry Nassar. Instead, it’s all about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
According to a university-wide email from MSU’s general counsel, Brian Quinn, reported by the State News, federal agencies are prodding the school for its DEI certification records, making it clear that Uncle Sam expects a full report card on MSU’s current status concerning identity-based hiring and policies.
Colleges face funding ultimatum.
As a condition to receive federal funding, according to a January 21st President Donald Trump Executive Order (EO) titled “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity,” they cannot operate any diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
Under the EO, grant recipients must certify that their DEI programs comply with applicable anti- discrimination laws. This certification is considered material to government payment decisions and is subject to the False Claims Act. The requirements will take effect within 90 days of the EO (April 20th).
Quinn’s letter also directs campus leaders to assess their “programs and activities” to ensure alignment with the federal government’s revised interpretation of civil rights law, which now deems DEI programs discriminatory and unlawful.
After weeks of speculation at MSU and across the country about just how hard President Donald Trump would crack down on DEI programs at public universities, the answer is now crystal clear: America’s colleges won’t be slipping past Uncle Sam’s watchful eye.
The compliance game – and its consequences.
This latest development puts MSU in a tricky position after having made promises to their students, faculty and community to provide an “inclusive” atmosphere and after pouring a deluge of funds and efforts into programs and hiring initiatives aimed at boosting diversity.
With the federal government swiftly scrutinizing certification records after Trump’s executive order, it’s clear they’re not just serious about enforcing compliance – they also have the manpower to back it up.
