MLive, 100s of ‘Stunned’ University of Michigan Law School Alums Blast DEI Cuts:
Hundreds of alumni from the University of Michigan Law School expressed their frustrations about the university’s cuts to its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in a recent letter.
The Wednesday, April 9, letter was addressed to Law School interim dean Kyle Logue was sent on behalf of more than 250 alumni. Organizers behind the group, Concerned University of Michigan Law School Alumni, confirmed the letter now has over 330 signatures and counting.
“All of us are stunned that the decision to terminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at Michigan may now put us at odds with the very institution that empowered us to fight injustice and taught us respect for the rule of law,” the letter read.
UM announced on March 27 it was immediately closing its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Office for Health Equity and Inclusion and discontinuing its DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan. These changes come as universities face funding threats around DEI under President Donald Trump’s administration. …
Logue wrote in a letter following the announcement there will be “no operational effect at the Law School,” because of how it has implemented DEI over the years.
He said the values of DEI “have long been central to everything” the law school does. It will continue to remain “steadfast” in its commitment to these values.
“Those principles are woven into our teaching, scholarship, and daily interactions, reflecting the foundational belief that our strength—and the best possible legal education—comes from embracing diverse backgrounds, promoting fairness, and fostering a welcoming environment for every individual who walks through our doors," the statement read.
The alumni group “strongly disagrees” these cuts will not impact the law school. The decision “signals to the world that Michigan no longer welcomes the Leaders & Best,” according to the letter.
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