UNC board diverts diversity program funding to enhance public safety resources

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Board of Trustees voted to cut funding for diversity programs in next year's budget. They decided to divert $2.3 million from diversity spending to public safety and policing. This change might lead to the loss of the university's diversity office. The decision was made to address the university's budget concerns. The board's vote only affects UNC-Chapel Hill's diversity funding. This move follows other public universities like the University of Florida reallocating funds. The decision was seen as a way for UNC to take a leadership role in the matter. The shift in funding towards public safety was influenced by recent pro-Palestinian protests on campus resulting in arrests. The board felt the need to prioritize the safety of all 30,000 students over a few causing disruptions. This decision was also influenced by a fatal shooting on campus in August. The change in funding allocation is part of a broader discussion on diversity policies in North Carolina's public university system. The UNC Board of Governors will vote on changing its diversity policy soon. This vote could impact the roles of various diversity, equity, and inclusion positions at 17 schools across the state. In summary, UNC-Chapel Hill's board decided to cut diversity funding to prioritize public safety. This decision reflects a larger trend in public universities reallocating funds. The move aims to address safety concerns on campus and align with potential changes in the state's diversity policies.