University spokesperson says the deletion of DEI language was a ‘clerical error’
As it turns out, Cornell University is not ending its commitment to “diversity, equity, and inclusion” in its hiring practices.
On Friday, the Ivy League institution added back DEI language to its Equal Education and Employment Opportunity Statement after removing it earlier this month, The Cornell Daily Sun reports.
A university spokesperson said the removal of the DEI language was a “clerical error.”
“Our commitment to equal opportunity remains steadfast. The statement currently published includes minor edits to remove affirmative action requirements for federal contractors and to clarify the regulations that continue to apply to qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities,” the spokesperson told the Sun.
The newly revised statement is pending final approval by the Board of Trustees, according to the university website.
“Cornell University’s history of diversity and inclusion encourages all students, faculty and staff to support a diverse and inclusive university in which to work, study, teach, research and serve,” the new statement reads, in part.
The language differs from previous changes published in early March, according to the Sun:
Now, as of March 21, the University has updated its previous EEO statement to reaffirm its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion while emphasizing recognition on “the basis of individual performance,” rather than identity and background. Additionally, discrimination resources have been restored. However, the revised statement, unlike the pre-March 2025 version, no longer includes references to affirmative action requirements. …
The Sun previously reported that Cornell changed its EEO statement to exclude references to DEI and discrimination resources. While now updated, the statement then read, “Cornell University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans. Learn more at hr.cornell.edu/EEO.”
By contrast, the original statement emphasizes Cornell’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, reading, “Cornell University’s history of diversity and inclusion encourages all students, faculty, and staff to support a diverse and inclusive university in which to work, study, teach, research, and serve.”
The newest statement also includes veterans and people with disabilities among the protected groups, according to the report.
A number of higher education institutions are removing their DEI offices, programs, and statements in response to an executive order from President Donald Trump on “ending illegal discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity.”
Last week, the University of California Board of Regents voted to end DEI statements in faculty hiring, The College Fix reported.
MORE: Congress urged to ban DEI accreditation standards as ABA drops diversity mandate
IMAGE CAPTION AND CREDIT: Flowers surround the Cornell University sign on campus. AmyLutz/Shutterstock
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