The University of Michigan (UM) announced Thursday that it will abandon diversity statements for hiring, promotion and tenure decisions after an apparent push from faculty.
An eight-member faculty working group established by Provost Laurie McCauley suggested the changes, reasoning that requiring diversity statements has the “potential to limit freedom of expression and diversity of thought on campus,” according to a press release from the university. McCauley insisted UM is still committed to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
“Diversity, equity and inclusion are three of our core values at the university,” McCauley said in a statement. “Our collective efforts in this area have produced important strides in opening opportunities for all people. As we pursue this challenging and complex work, we will continuously refine our approach.”