Over the weekend, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights issued a letter clarifying its position on diversity, equity, and inclusion practices and programs in higher education. Like universities across the country, Marquette University is assessing the impact and next steps. What will not change is Marquette’s commitment to its Catholic, Jesuit mission and upholding the inherent dignity of each person, created in the likeness of God.
A cross-functional working group of university leaders is gathering information to evaluate and determine what Marquette needs to consider based on this new letter and expected additional guidance from the Office of Civil Rights in the coming days. The legal landscape continues to shift, and it is possible that the position set forth in this letter will be adjusted with further guidance from the Office of Civil Rights and/or potential legal challenges.
In addition, the university continues to work closely with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities to review the orders and develop accurate legal guidance before determining which actions may be necessary.
Please remember to follow current guidance, which will be updated for any future developments. Specifically, as it pertains to DEIA issues:
- Refrain from making updates to any web pages or other disclosures unless provided guidance to do so by the Office of General Counsel or the Office and Marketing and Communication.
- Faculty, staff and students should not respond on behalf of the university to reporters. Media requests for comments from the university should be directed to the Office of Marketing and Communication.
You can also consult the latest university information on grants and research.
