April 15, 2024
The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education is heartened that so many faculty and student groups are speaking out in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion in advance of the nationwide Day of Action for Higher Education on April 17.
If we are to counter the many recent offensive attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education — and if we are to be successful in continuing to support our students with the programs and people needed to advance academic and economic excellence — then it is absolutely vital that we band together in partnerships across higher education and beyond advocating for our shared work.
The day’s focus on the value of academic freedom and the defense of diversity, equity, and inclusion underscores how these two principles are complementary. Academic freedom is foundational to facilitating thoughtful, meaningful scholarly activity that propels inclusive excellence forward. Diversity officers play a necessary role in cultivating the environments in which academic freedom can thrive, and in which students, faculty, and staff can feel supported in sharing their views.
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The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) is the preeminent voice for chief diversity officers. As the leader of the national conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion, it investigates, influences, and innovates to transform higher education so that inclusive excellence lives at its core.