UT Austin Staff and Students React to Layoffs and DEI Closure in Compliance with Texas Ban

The University of Texas announced the closure of its Division of Campus and Community Engagement and laid off dozens of employees due to changes required by Senate Bill 17, the state's anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion law. The decision has sparked outrage among students and community members, who are calling for transparency and the reinstatement of the eliminated positions and programs. The affected staff and students express shock, sadness, and determination to support those who lost their jobs and fight for the return of essential programs for marginalized students.