To all minorities and alumni of Purdue, IU, Butler, Indiana State, Marian, Ball State, or any other schools in Indiana.

I'd like to bring attention to SB 289 which has recently made its debut and seeks to eliminate DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs and universities throughout Indiana. To take it a step further this bill threatens the existence of all cultural centers and other programs that support underrepresented and marginalized communities.

The cultural centers on our campus’s act as a medium to create a place where students can get academic support and they also invoke a sense of belonging, recognition and serve as a second home to students hailing from diverse backgrounds. These sacred and essential spaces serve as a place where students can go to access resources to help further academic careers and build a support system vital to succeeding, or even just to create a sense of community with other students.

With that being said, let's address what consequences come with the removal of DEI here in Indiana. 

Elimination of cultural understanding among student population
Lack of recognition among various minorities

Removal of safe spaces for minorities which will affect minorities on campus negatively

Reduction in the amount of resources vital to student success

Declination of worldwide reputation which could hinder the amount of students choosing schools in the state as their choice to further their studies.

These are some of the cascading effects that the removal of DEI on our campus will have. We urge students, faculty, and alumni to take notice and action against this bill. Inform your peers and educate those that are unaware of SB 289 and the effects it will have on campuses.