Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton wants to transfer the city’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion officer to a position in the division of human resources. The proposal was heard in ordinance form by the city council last week. It comes as the General Assembly considers legislation banning DEI efforts in local governments. Councilmember Denise Gray:
“We will no longer have Diversity, Equity and Inclusion here at LFUCG and that is due to everything that we're hearing on the federal and even on the state level.”
The mayor’s office declined comment on the move. Gray said DEI efforts are often mischaracterized as favoring one group over another.
“Perhaps some folks have used it in the wrong way, but I know most programs, most universities, most local governments have been using this as a way to give people opportunity, not necessarily give someone the opportunity over someone more qualified, at all.”
The Kentucky General Assembly has passed or is considering several bills that take aim at DEI in colleges, state and local government and agencies. Gray said she’s concerned about the impact of such measures on women, veterans and other groups of people.
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