EAST LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The Board of Trustees at Michigan State University (MSU) is preparing to vote on Friday to remove the word “Diversity” from the title of the university’s top DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) administrator.

According to The State News, instead of Dr. Jabbar R. Bennett being called the “Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer,” his title would become “Vice President and Chief Inclusion Officer.” It’s a subtle shift that suggests inclusion is fine, but diversity may be too risky during a Trump presidency. Bennett’s role is inside of the MSU Office for Inclusive Excellence and Impact, formerly the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion.

When compliance wins over courage.

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MSU’s move comes amid growing federal scrutiny of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs nationwide – “as the university continues to navigate various federal impacts,” according to its Inclusion Communications Manager.

The institution has already removed DEI statements from job postings and dropped DEI language from its strategic plan. In short: to avoid trouble, it’s easier to rename than to reform.

Ignoring the message, keeping the mission?

The university insists it remains committed to upholding their “collective goals and intended outcomes” even though their language is changing. But let’s be honest: if they are scrapping the word “diversity,” yet keep the same office, same budget, and same staff – are they really changing anything?