Belmont University’s Rebranding Efforts Under Scrutiny Amid Controversy Over Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Fox News has learned that Belmont University, a self-proclaimed Christian institution, is allegedly maintaining its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by simply changing the terminology used in its programs. According to undercover recordings obtained by Representative Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., a faculty member admitted that the school has not only continued its DEI efforts but also knowingly harbors illegal immigrants, concealing this information from external entities.

The controversy surrounding Belmont University comes as President Trump has taken steps to end “discriminatory” DEI programs or risk losing federal funding. In a statement to Fox News Digital, the university insisted it is “in compliance with federal laws.”

This move by Belmont University is part of a larger trend observed by conservative organizations and lawmakers, where institutions are attempting to circumvent Trump’s executive order by rebranding their DEI initiatives under new names.

Conservative advocacy group Defending Education has previously identified numerous universities that have taken steps to reorganize their DEI efforts rather than fully discontinuing them. A total of 383 “currently active” DEI offices and programs were found to be still operational, with 243 institutions maintaining institution-wide DEI offices or programming.

Representative Ogles expressed outrage over Belmont’s actions, stating that the university is attempting to deceive the public by adopting a new name for its DEI initiatives. The Tennessee Republican claimed that such actions are “inconsistent with their professed Christian values.”

In an email sent to the Belmont community, President L. Gregory Jones reinforced his administration’s commitment to complying with federal laws and argued that the Office of Hope, Unity and Belonging (HUB) is not a DEI office, despite the university’s own website describing it as such when it was established in 2022.

The controversy surrounding Belmont University has raised concerns over the potential violations of Tennessee state law.

Source: www.foxnews.com