West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey, on his second day in office, banned diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at all public institutions in the state through executive action.
“Theories of DEI are contrary to equal protection guarantees of the West Virginia and United States Constitution,” reads one of the eight executive orders Morrisey issued Tuesday. “It is in the interest of the citizens of West Virginia that the State government treat them as equals under the law instead of preferentially or discriminatorily based on race, color, sex, ethnicity, or national origin.”
The order prohibits state institutions from using public funds or resources to support DEI-related programs, staff positions, or initiatives. It also bans requirements for anyone to undergo DEI training, pledge support for DEI causes, or disclose their “preferred pronouns.”…