The LGBTQ Resource Center at the University of Houston is being disbanded due to a new state law in Texas (Senate Bill 17) that bans diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public education institutions.
From the Texas Tribune:
SB 17, which takes effect on Jan. 1, will require that all state-funded colleges and universities close their DEI offices. It also bans any mandatory diversity training. Gov. Greg Abbott signed the bill into law June 14.
Houston-area Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, who filed the bill, said in a June statement that it would promote a “merit-based approach” and “[w]hat sets SB 17 apart from other proposals is that the legislation delivers strong enforcement with mandates to return Texas colleges and universities to their core mission — educate and innovate.”
He said in the statement that the law does not affect student-led organizations. But UH’s LGBTQ Resource Center was a university-run program and falls under the law.
It won’t surprise you that Creighton is also sponsoring the state’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill for public schools.
I report on many anti-LGBTQ bills being passed in states across the country, but this is a real-world example of HOW such legislation affects people. #sad
Related: Texas Senate Approves License To Discriminate
University of Houston students are grappling with the looming closure of the university’s LGBTQ Resource Center, which will soon be disbanded in accordance with Senate Bill 17.
“There were a lot of special moments held in that space."
via @Hou_Landing https://t.co/Q5nCS7t6wI
— Texas Tribune (@TexasTribune) August 18, 2023