The state House could vote this week on a bill that would eliminate state funds for Arizona universities and colleges that offer courses on diversity, equity and inclusion.
The bill allows for historical references to be taught, but lawmakers seem to not agree on what DEI means. Democratic Rep. Quantá Crews told House colleagues that racial discrimination continues today.
“I have, in my opinion, never been given a job because I am Black. If anything it's the opposite. You see, Quanta, when she applies for a job, never gets an interview. But Marie does. There's a reason my resume says Marie Brown, Marie Cruz on it," Crews said.
Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs could veto the measure if it reaches her desk. She has yet to sign a bill that is not supported by her party.
It comes against the national backdrop of Republican President Donald Trump issuing edicts about what materials and even what phrases will put institutions at risk of losing their federal funding.
