Diversity initiatives are being banned at the federal level and in some states. It’s a hot political topic among some Republicans who want such efforts out of places receiving government funding.

Will Missouri be next to ban diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives?

“This administration will be built on merit, and we will not support DEI programs in state government. I will be taking action on this in the coming weeks,” said Gov. Mike Kehoe during his State of the State Address on Wednesday.

Several GOP legislative bills have been filed over the past two years that would ban diversity programs in state government and at Missouri’s public colleges and universities. They often come with the threat of losing government funding.

Missouri State University leaders announced Wednesday that its diversity, equity and inclusion programs have ended. University President Richard “Biff” Williams told Missourinet state lawmakers and the governor have made it clear that those programs would not be funded.

The University of Missouri has already made this move.

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