Inside NIU’s Student-Led Movement for Diversity and Inclusion

A senior psychology major at Northern Illinois University, Kaleb Deer has witnessed how the recent push by Washington to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs has heightened anxiety among minority students like himself. “They label these initiatives as ‘divisive,’” he explains. “Removing them makes us feel unwelcome.” In response, Deer and his peers initiated biweekly “healing circles,” where they alleviate stress through art and conversation. As institutions confront pressure to eliminate racial equity initiatives, students and faculty are independently fostering healing through community-driven approaches. This grassroots effort was the centerpiece of a panel at the University of Chicago, featuring experts like Professor Abu Bah, who emphasizes that genuine equity involves a restoration of decades-old injustices, not mere numerical representation. Yet, challenges remain, igniting a need for continuous advocacy.