Mississippi lawmakers have approved a bill that would ban diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and related teachings in public schools, community colleges, and universities across the state.
The legislation, House Bill 1193, passed both the House and Senate after extensive negotiations and debate. The bill is now expected to move to the desk of Republican Gov. Tate Reeves for final approval following a procedural motion.
The measure seeks to align Mississippi with similar actions taken in other Republican-led states and with executive orders issued during former President Donald Trump’s administration, which aimed to restrict DEI-related policies in the federal government.
According to the bill, its intent is to prohibit public educational institutions from engaging in what lawmakers refer to as “discriminatory practices” and to ensure that employment, academic opportunities, and student involvement are based on merit, qualifications, and academic performance. The legislation also outlines penalties for noncompliance, including the withholding of state funding if schools receive more than two complaints of violating the act.
The bill includes a ban on the promotion or teaching of “divisive concepts,” which it defines as ideas related to race, sex, color, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or national origin.
Reactions among Southern Miss students have been mixed.
“I agree with the bill’s intent,” said one student who requested anonymity. “No one should receive special treatment based on their gender or race. So, it is what it is.”
Other students expressed concern about the bill’s implications.
“I think it’s cruel and unjust,” said Curtis Langston, a USM student. “Everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed and have this. It is saddening to see.”
“Many come from rougher backgrounds, and the bill helps those less fortunate gain a foothold into a better future,” said Southern Miss student Gavin Owens. “Better future for one equals better future for many more.”
International student Afique Rafhid emphasized the importance of DEI in educational settings.
“DEI programs are essential for creating environments where every student, regardless of their background, feels safe, heard, and valued,” Rafhid said. “Without DEI, the risk is not just losing inclusion but also losing the very global community that makes education in the U.S. so unique.”
Lakandis Walton, another USM student, said the move could undermine progress.
“I believe banning DEI programs is a step backward,” Walton said. “These initiatives help ensure all students feel seen, supported, and included. Removing them risks ignoring real inequalities that still exist.”
Jalend Satcher, president of the Southern Miss Association of Black Journalists (SMABJ), voiced concern about the bill’s impact on campus organizations.
“SMABJ and other specific organizations were not formed to exclude; they were made to elevate, equip, and encourage diverse groups of people,” Satcher said. “To eliminate entire organizations that focus on removing the barriers and biased stance formed from onlookers would not only be hypocritical but also a pathway to further misunderstandings in the future.”
USM’s Afro-American Student Organization (AASO) and the campus’ NAACP will protest the DEI ban on April 11 at 11:00 a.m. in Spirit Park.
The anti-DEI bill is expected to be reviewed and signed into law by the governor within the next 15 to 20 days.
