'Do better for Oklahoma': OU students react to governor's order nixing DEI at state universities, agencies

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — On Wednesday, Gov. Kevin Stitt (R-Okla.) signed an executive order directing state agencies and universities to phase out diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

In a statement, Gov. Stitt noted,“In Oklahoma, we’re going to encourage equal opportunity, rather than promising equal outcomes. Encouraging our workforce, economy, and education systems to flourish means shifting focus away from exclusivity and discrimination, and toward opportunity and merit. We’re taking politics out of education and focusing on preparing students for the workforce.”

Applause greeted the governor's signing of the order at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

Two sophomores who attend the University of Oklahoma, however, expressed their disapproval of the governor's decision in interviews with FOX 25.

Liam Hosty and Aiden Wilson play in a band called Wet Muscles and have known each other since kindergarten.

According to Hosty, "I think it is a step backwards... I don't understand really why it's necessary to... take those programs away and those offices away."

In a statement provided to FOX 25, OU expressed it was "disappointed" by the executive order, but added it would stand by its mission of providing a place of belonging for all who attend.

"Ultimately... whenever you take away resources from inclusion programs, like, it'll have a negative impact. It's hard to say right now what the extent of the impact will be until time plays out," asserted Wilson.

Gov. Stitt's action follows similar efforts that have already taken place in states across the nation.

The Iowa Board of Regents voted to scale back DEI programs at public universities in November.

Florida adopted laws defunding DEI at state higher education institutions in May.

Hosty had the following message to share with Gov. Stitt: "Do better for Oklahoma... He probably doesn't care though."

OU's full statement reads as follows:

The University of Oklahoma is flourishing as the state’s public flagship university. While many universities across the country are struggling, we have a record number of students on all our campuses, we are growing our state’s economy, bringing to market new research and technologies through renowned faculty, and substantively bettering the lives of every single Oklahoman. These accomplishments and positive impact to the state would not be possible without the underlying values that serve as a constant north star for our university: access and opportunity for all of those with the talent and work ethic to succeed; being a place of belonging for all who attend; dedication to free speech and inquiry; and civility in our treatment of each other. These principles transcend political ideology, and in them, we are unwavering. We are disappointed that today’s executive order reaches into college campuses across Oklahoma and eliminates offices of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. While we are obligated to comply, the University of Oklahoma will always remain committed to its core principles that make OU a place of belonging where the American Dream is available to all. We know, too, that our students, university community, and the citizens of Oklahoma also are resolute in their commitment to these values. We remain committed to ensuring an education from the University of Oklahoma remains accessible and available to all students and will continue to work to recruit and retain a workforce of the most talented and qualified minds that are representative of our state. The citizens of Oklahoma deserve nothing less.