Continued Campus Protests against anti-DEI Law SB 17
In an ongoing demonstration of dissent, Texas A&M University’s women’s organization, Aggie Rosies, continues to rally against Texas Senate Bill 17 (SB 17). On March 25, the group held a protest at Rudder Plaza, maintaining a robust opposition against an enduring legislative decree viewed as detrimental to diversity at state-funded universities.
Impact of SB 17
The bill in contention, SB 17, was signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and took effect on January 1. Autumn Borowski, who serves as the Philanthropy Executive for Aggie Rosies and also an animal science junior, explains the law’s implications. “SB 17 prohibits state-funded universities and colleges from having Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) offices and employees hired for DEI purposes,” says Borowski. “This bill is most commonly known on our campus for…closing our Office of Diversity and dissolving all the positions there.”
Advocates argue that this legislation bears a significant impact on a vast number of students, especially those in minority communities. The constraints imposed by the bill limit students’ access to resources, education, and have a negative bearing on mental health.
The Contention and Consequence
Belia Sanchez-Booth, a General Studies freshman and Sisterhood Executive for Aggie Rosies, points out that the removal of the LGBTQ center – an indirect result of the bill – has left many students bereft of a safe space. The passing of the bill has invalidated many students, stripping them of representation and safe spaces on campus.
Despite the constraints placed by SB 17 on university-run programs, Borowski asserts that the bill does not shackle student action. In her view, coping with the absence of support and resources is a battle that now rests on the students’ shoulders. Although protesters contend it should not be their responsibility to procure these facilities, they recognize it is imperative under the new legislative circumstances.
The Protest and the Aftermath
Joining the protest march across the campus were several students and faculty who echoed the belief that everyone deserves representation in their educational journey. The protesters expressed their hopes that this demonstration could serve as a catalyst for similar movements across other campuses and harbinger a statewide initiative for challenging the bill.
The fight against SB 17 is far from over. Following the protest, the organizers expressed the desire for sustained momentum in dissension. Their vision extends to exploring potential loopholes in the legislation, empowering students to access the resources they need in spite of the restrictions imposed by the bill.
The struggle for diversity, equity, and inclusion continues as campuses like Texas A&M University persist in their fight against restrictions that undercut these core values. How this struggle will shape the future of diversity and student resources on campuses across Texas, remains to be seen.
