Michigan State University Ends Affirmative Action Employment Policies Under Trump Administration

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) -- Michigan State University is reversing its policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in hiring.

This is a direct reaction to President Donald Trump's decision to stop what he refers to as "illegitimate" employment practices.

This modification affects everyone employed at Michigan State University (MSU), including students, faculty members, as well as administrative, academic, and support staff, who collectively form the biggest group on campus.

Starting from providing equal opportunities for everyone, aiming to hire a varied workforce equipped with different skill sets.

Currently, employment at Michigan State University will be determined by merit as per the Trump Administration’s guidelines.

College students on campus have varied opinions regarding the conclusion of affirmative action.

“If you work hard, you should no matter who you are, you should be able to get into a position, it shouldn’t really matter,” said MSU freshman Quinn Allison.

Amber McCann, the university spokesperson, states that the institution has implemented modifications as a result of President Trump’s executive order , discontinuing hiring practices based on race, gender, skin color, ethnicity, and nationality. According to University of Michigan Law School Professor Richard Primus, this practice was already phased out for faculty recruitment across the state.

“Given that the faculty represent a fairly small percentage of the overall staff, such changes would impact most job roles within the institution since the university employs more non-faculty personnel than faculty members,” explained Professor Primus.

The long-term effects remain unclear, yet students are raising doubts about the alteration and if it will halt the advancements achieved through affirmative action.

"I believe our team is excellent as it is, so why make any changes?" stated Allison.

The initial executive order regarding affirmative action was implemented by Lyndon B. Johnson In 1965, measures were introduced to tackle the lingering impacts of historical discrimination, aiming to ensure equal opportunities for everyone; however, the Trump Administration argues that these efforts undermine the significance of personal merit, ability, and diligence.

This move comes after several rallies on campus against the Trump Administration. That includes calls for more protection for international students and demonstrations against the limiting of academic freedoms.

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