University of Iowa Employee Admits Skirting State DEI Ban Amid Official Probes

A University of Iowa employee was caught on undercover video admitting that the university is circumventing state laws banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies by rebranding these initiatives under different terms. The video revealed that while DEI terminology was removed from official communications, the underlying practices continue, with university leadership reportedly supportive of these efforts. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds condemned the employee's remarks and referred the matter to Attorney General Brenna Bird for investigation into potential violations of the 2024 state law banning DEI at public institutions. This law follows an executive order from President Trump prohibiting DEI policies in federal government agencies and institutions receiving federal funding, with threats to cut funding for noncompliance. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities and universities over DEI programs, with state officials emphasizing strict enforcement of the ban. The University of Iowa's actions have drawn sharp criticism from Republican leaders who view DEI as destructive and contrary to law.