UC System Requires Controversial DEI Training with Political Content

Internal records reveal that the University of California system mandated students to undergo diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training that included concepts such as “equality isn’t actually fair” and suggested opposing the Black Lives Matter movement might be “racist.” The training, sourced from a vendor used as recently as the 2024–25 academic year, centered on interactive scenarios involving perceived “microaggressions” and navigating discussions about race and social justice.

The course was obtained through a FOIA request by the “Do No Harm” advocacy group, which aims to keep identity politics out of medical education and research. The group criticizes the training as political indoctrination, arguing it diverts students from developing critical thinking skills toward progressive political dogma.

One module explained that “sometimes, equality isn’t actually fair,” emphasizing “equity” as providing individuals what they need to succeed. Trainees were also given choices on how to respond to a peer expressing skepticism about Black Lives Matter, with options including educating, calling the peer “naïve,” or engaging in a discussion.

The training also provided guidance on language use, advising students to avoid terms like “lame” and “insane” to prevent stigma, and emphasizing respect for gender identity and cultural differences. Students were encouraged to treat everyone with dignity, regardless of objections based on religion or politics.

Additionally, resources were provided for further learning, and organizations like “Showing Up for Racial Justice” were recommended. This group actively promotes racial justice activism and has alleged that certain voters and politicians promote racist policies.

The content of the training notably conflicts with several actions taken by the Trump administration, raising questions about the UC system’s compliance with federal standards. Recently, the Biden-era Department of Education announced an investigation into whether UC engaged in unlawful racial or sex-based discrimination in faculty hiring. The UC system has also faced lawsuits over alleged race-based admissions, even after Supreme Court rulings outlawed such practices.

The University of California stated that its contracts with the vendor, Vector (formerly EverFi), have ended, and the system no longer employs their services for DEI or harassment training across campuses.