Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SCR12

Caption

A Concurrent Resolution calling for equal treatment of college students; expecting institutions to respect the Constitutional protection of equality; respecting all students' beliefs; removing DEI; stopping funding at DEI-teaching institutions.

Impact

The resolution signals a significant shift in the approach to handling DEI within Oklahoma's higher education landscape. SCR12 posits that the current DEI frameworks contribute to a divisive educational environment, leading to the indoctrination of students into specific belief systems. The resolution strongly asserts that educational institutions funded by taxpayer dollars must respect the diverse beliefs of their student populations and adhere to the principle of equality as enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, specifically the 14th Amendment.

Summary

SCR12 is a Concurrent Resolution advocating for the equal treatment of college students in Oklahoma. The resolution emphasizes that state-funded colleges and universities should uphold the constitutional protections of equality, ensuring that all students, irrespective of their beliefs, are afforded the same opportunities. A key pillar of SCR12 is the call for the removal of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in educational institutions, which the bill's proponents argue have been used to unfairly discriminate against students who do not conform to the prevailing ideologies associated with DEI programs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SCR12 represents a significant policy proposal aimed at reshaping the educational landscape in Oklahoma by prioritizing equal treatment based on the idea of equality as a constitutional right. The ongoing debate surrounding the implications of the proposed resolution will likely impact funding decisions for institutions that do not comply with its directives, raising further questions about the future of DEI initiatives in the state's higher educational framework.

Contention

However, the resolution has sparked notable contention among various stakeholders. Critics argue that the elimination of DEI programs may undermine efforts to create a supportive environment for marginalized student groups and could limit the diversity of thought within academic discourse. Additionally, opponents claim that the language used in SCR12 could be perceived as an attack on cultural competency training that seeks to prepare students for a diverse society.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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