Iowa lawmaker says University of Iowa DEI incidents show need for policy change

DES MOINES, Iowa ( IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH ) - While a decision by the Iowa Board of Regents to propose changes to its policies relating to academic freedom and the teaching of controversial topics is being seen as a good first step, a key Iowa lawmaker said one of the state’s public universities has lost some respect in the wake of repeated incidents relating to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Rep. Taylor Collins, R-Mediapolis, said in an interview he believes “it’s significant” that the Iowa Board of Regents will bring forward proposed policy changes for adoption, though language has shifted drastically from the first to final draft.

The new version eliminates mentions of diversity, equity and inclusion and critical race theory and inserts that instructors can teach controversial topi