Columbus, OH——-Ohio State University (OSU) recently sparked controversy after announcing the closure of two key offices dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), alongside the elimination of over a dozen staff positions. The move, prompted by directives from the Trump administration, is set to affect the university’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the Center for Belonging and Social Change, both of which will cease operations within 60 days starting from February 28. Additionally, the Office of Institutional Equity will undergo rebranding, becoming the Office of Civil Rights Compliance.
The decision has drawn heavy criticism from various student groups, alumni associations, and faculty members, who argue that the closures are a setback for inclusivity and social justice at the university.
The Reason Behind the Changes:
The closures are a direct response to recent mandates from the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration, which required universities to eliminate “race-based decision-making” on campuses. According to a letter sent by the department on February 14, schools were warned that failure to comply with these directives by the end of the month could result in the loss of federal funding. In response, Ohio State President Ted Carter announced the sweeping cuts, framing them as necessary steps to adhere to the federal guidelines.
Community Outrage and Advocacy Response:
The decision has been met with widespread condemnation. On Tuesday, students, faculty, and local community members are expected to gather in protest on the university’s Oval at 1 p.m. to voice their opposition. Their grievances are not only about the office closures but also about Ohio Senate Bill 1, a controversial higher education bill currently under consideration at the Statehouse.
The Ohio Student Association (OSA), an advocacy group focusing on racial, economic, and educational justice, has been particularly vocal. In a letter sent to university leaders across the state, OSA condemned the decision, calling it “cowardly” and a “morally reprehensible” response to what it described as “politicized mandates.” The group emphasized that the university was choosing compliance over standing firm for its students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds.
“This isn’t just about complying with federal threats; it’s about caving in to political pressure without even giving students a chance to fight back,” the letter stated. “When you surrender without a fight, you betray the students who look to you for leadership in these critical times.”
Student leaders at Ohio State also expressed their disappointment. The Undergraduate Student Government (USG) President Bobby McAlpine and Vice President Justin Robinson released a joint statement decrying the closure of the offices as a significant setback in the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. They argued that the elimination of these programs would directly harm students who rely on these resources for mentorship, scholarships, and career opportunities.
“Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Inclusion are not just institutional initiatives; they are commitments to ensuring every student has access to the resources they need to thrive,” their statement read. “The removal of these programs is not symbolic—it has real, harmful consequences.”
Black Alumni and Broader Community Reactions:
The backlash has also been strongly felt within Ohio State’s Black Alumni community. Chibundu Nnake, President of the Ohio State Black Alumni Society, expressed deep concern over the decision. In a statement released over the weekend, Nnake called the closure of the DEI offices a “devastating blow” and a “significant step backward” for the Black community at Ohio State. He criticized the way the decision was made, noting that it was carried out with minimal consultation with key stakeholders, including students, faculty, and alumni.
“The manner in which this decision was made—seemingly overnight, with minimal consultation—is unacceptable and disrespectful,” Nnake said. “It shows a profound lack of sensitivity to the Black community, especially considering it was announced at the close of Black History Month.”
He also pointed out that other prominent public universities, such as the University of Michigan and the University of Texas, have sought to comply with federal directives while still upholding a commitment to inclusion. Nnake stressed that Ohio State’s decision to take the most extreme approach sends a damaging message about its priorities and where Black students, faculty, and staff stand within the institution.
Impact on Black Publications and Media Coverage:
The closure of these DEI offices also raises questions about the future of Black publications and media coverage, particularly when it comes to securing credentials for Ohio State’s programs. Black-owned media outlets, which often focus on issues of racial justice and inclusion, may face increasing barriers in gaining access to university events and resources. The elimination of diversity-related offices could result in diminished support for initiatives aimed at amplifying marginalized voices, including Black student publications and media organizations.
If Ohio State continues to retreat from its commitment to diversity, the consequences may ripple through to Black publications, which rely on institutional relationships to cover important campus events and initiatives. These publications often serve as vital outlets for stories of racial equity, activism, and the struggles of marginalized communities. Without access to key programs and resources, these voices may be further silenced, and students who rely on these platforms for advocacy may find themselves without a critical means of representation.
A Crossroads for Ohio State:
Ohio State University’s decision to close its diversity-focused offices represents more than a policy change; it signals a potential shift in the university’s values and priorities. As protests and calls for accountability grow, the ultimate impact on Black students, faculty, alumni, and publications will be closely watched. The university’s response to the outcry—and its willingness to engage in an open, inclusive dialogue—could either repair the damage done or deepen the divide within the campus community. The future of DEI at Ohio State remains uncertain, but the consequences of these actions will reverberate far beyond the university’s campus, especially for Black communities who are advocating for change and justice.
