Arizona Voters Set to Decide Ban on State-Funded Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Programs
Arizona voters will decide on Proposition 142 on Nov. 3, a measure that would bar state money from supporting DEI offices, programs and mandatory training in public institutions.
On Nov. 3, Arizona residents will vote on Proposition 142, which would stop state funding for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) offices, programs and mandatory training in public schools, colleges and government agencies. The initiative also aims to eliminate race-based conditions for college admission, graduation, hiring and contracting, and would bar public employees from being required to make DEI statements. Supporters cite the 2010 Proposition 107 that barred affirmative-action considerations, saying Proposition 142 closes a loophole that still permits race-based policies when federal pressure exists.
Matt Beienburg of the Goldwater Institute frames the measure as a straightforward protection of individual rights and a way to avoid “activist coursework” that costs students time and tuition. Opponents, including ACLU of Arizona’s Katelynn Contreras, argue the ban violates the First Amendment by restricting academic freedom and limiting discussion of topics such as slavery. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona’s Solveig Muus contends the language, while appearing fair, would impede public institutions’ ability to address racism, gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation, moving the state in the wrong direction.
Why it matters
The vote could dramatically change how Arizona's public schools and agencies address race and equity.
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