Indiana governor signs executive order eliminating DEI initiatives from state government

Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed an executive order this week that eliminates DEI initiatives from state government. 

The order directs all state executive branch agencies to comply with the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College.

What is Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College?

The backstory:

The Students for Fair Admissions case centered on the use of race in college admissions, particularly at Harvard University. 

The Supreme Court ruled that the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment applies universally, meaning that race, color, and nationality cannot be used as a factor in admissions or other areas where preferential treatment could occur. 

Braun’s executive order seeks to apply this interpretation to state government operations in Indiana, ensuring compliance with the Court’s decision.

Braun's Executive Order

What we know:

The executive order prohibits state agencies from using state resources—such as funds, property, or personnel—to support any diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that grant preferential treatment based on race, color, ethnicity or national origin.

Additionally, the order bans requiring individuals to disclose pronouns or submit diversity-related statements as part of employment applications.

What we don't know:

The full impact of the executive order on existing DEI programs and policies in Indiana remains unclear, as state agencies are required to conduct a review and report on the status of these initiatives by mid-2025. 

The specifics of how state agencies will adjust to the new guidelines are still to be determined.

What's next:

Governor Braun has instructed all executive branch state agencies to complete a review of their DEI programs for compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling by April 30. 

A written report detailing the findings, including any programs that were eliminated or revised, will be submitted to the governor and the legislative council by July 1.

Additionally, the Chief Equity, Inclusion, and Opportunity office within the governor’s office has been closed as part of the implementation of this order.

Braun's Executive Order can be found here

The Source: The information in this article came from an executive order signed by Gov. Mike Braun. 

IndianaNewsEquity and Inclusion