Dione Dor Valentina urges committee to protect Indiana's DEI programs from SB 289

The Indiana State Legislature's Judiciary Committee convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss significant issues surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, particularly in relation to Senate Bill 289. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from community members advocating for the preservation of DEI initiatives, which they argue are vital for supporting marginalized groups.

One of the key discussions centered on the opposition to Chapter 7 of the bill, which addresses penalties related to DEI programs. A statement from Dr. Raskeba, a respected researcher and co-founder of the University Alliance of Racial Justice, was read into the record. He expressed that while the bill has improved from its original form, he and others still oppose its implementation, emphasizing the need for systems that benefit everyone rather than perpetuating inequities.

Dione D'or Valentina, a multiracial, multiethnic transgender woman and a first-year student at a public university, delivered a heartfelt testimony about her personal experiences with the challenges faced by individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Valentina highlighted how DEI programs provided her with essential support, including financial assistance and community, which helped her navigate significant hardships such as homelessness and mental health struggles. She argued that dismantling DEI initiatives would jeopardize the futures of many students like herself, who rely on these programs for success and belonging.

Valentina's testimony underscored the broader implications of the bill, framing the debate as not merely a policy issue but a matter of values and societal commitment to inclusivity. She urged committee members to consider the impact of their decisions on future generations of students, emphasizing that the removal of DEI programs would signal a retreat from equity and belonging.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion and consideration of the implications of Senate Bill 289, as community members continue to advocate for the protection and enhancement of DEI initiatives in Indiana.