Hawaii House Bill HCR205

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 3/28/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 3/28/24
• Refer: 4/5/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Report Pass: 4/19/24
• Passed: 4/22/24

Caption

Urging The University Of Hawaii To Adopt And Publicize A Statewide Equity Statement.

Impact

If passed, HCR205 would require the University of Hawaii to make the statewide equity statement publicly accessible on its website. Furthermore, it mandates the establishment of DEI committees at each campus, which would recommend actions to close existing equity gaps and contribute an annual report detailing these actions. This requirement emphasizes the institutions' commitment to continuous improvement in diversity and inclusion efforts, potentially impacting the enrollment and success rates of historically underrepresented groups, including Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and first-generation college students.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 205 (HCR205) urges the University of Hawaii to adopt and publicize a statewide equity statement. The resolution comes in the backdrop of increasing criticisms aimed at diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across educational institutions in the United States. It highlights the potential risks to academic freedom and future student success when DEI efforts are undermined or attacked. By adopting a statewide equity statement, the bill aims to position Hawaii as a leader in promoting and best practicing equity initiatives in higher education.

Contention

While proponents of HCR205 argue that it reinforces the importance of DEI initiatives amidst national debates, opponents may express concerns over the perceived political undertones surrounding equity statements. The discussions could reflect broader societal divides concerning the role of diversity and inclusion in academia. However, the bill passed unanimously in the Senate's Higher Education committee, indicating strong legislative support for these initiatives at this point.