Gov. Spencer Cox (R-UT) attempted to commemorate Black History Month on X only to receive backlash from opponents to his termination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
On Tuesday, Cox signed a bill into law eliminating DEI from universities and state-level government. On Thursday, Cox posted to “honor” African Americans in his state.
“February is Black History Month and we honor the resilience, courage and contributions African Americans have made to our state and nation,” Cox wrote. “We celebrate Black communities and remain committed to improving access to opportunity.”
Those upset by the newest DEI law were quick to blast Cox online. One user wrote, “It takes a downright impressive set of brass balls to post this after the bills he signed this week.”
“Once again, actions speak louder than words,” state Sen. Nate Blouin wrote in response.
“The audacity to post this could really only be possessed by a member of today’s modern GOP, a party defined by their hate, fear, and disrespect of anyone who doesn’t look and think just like them,” Josh Rush wrote. “Shame on you, Spencer Cox. You’re just like the rest of them.”
Utah is not alone in its dissolution of DEI, as Republican lawmakers in 17 other states have attempted similar initiatives. At the same time, Democratic lawmakers in 20 states are making inverse efforts.
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“We’ve been concerned about some DEI programs and policies, particularly with hiring practices, and this bill offers a balanced solution,” Cox said of the new law. “I’m grateful to the Legislature for not following the lead of other states that simply eliminated DEI funding with no alternative path for students who may be struggling. Instead, this funding will be repurposed to help all Utah students succeed regardless of their background.”
This law goes into effect on July 1.
