In South Carolina, we pride ourselves on honoring history, tradition, and the fundamental principles this nation was built upon. Yet, the recent attacks by the General Assembly on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs are not just misguided—they are a direct contradiction to the very ideals that made America.
Let’s remember why this country exists in the first place. The American Revolution was fought because early settlers felt excluded, oppressed, and denied a voice in the systems that governed them. They rebelled against tyranny in the name of fairness and representation. The only difference between then and now? Today, we seek inclusivity through dialogue, education, and policy—not muskets and rebellion. But make no mistake: the core demand is the same. Inclusion is as American as apple pie.
DEI programs are not about division; they are about repairing the fractures in our society. They ensure that every citizen, regardless of race, gender, or background, has a fair shot at success. They help businesses, schools, and government agencies reflect the full spectrum of South Carolina’s people. When we dismantle these programs, we don’t erase differences—we erase opportunities.
Some in the General Assembly claim DEI is “divisive.” But what’s truly divisive is refusing to acknowledge the systemic barriers that still exist. What’s divisive is telling marginalized communities, “Your struggles don’t matter.” What’s divisive is pretending that ignoring inequality will make it disappear.
South Carolina has come too far to go backward. From the Civil Rights Movement to the present day, we’ve seen the power of inclusion to transform our state for the better. Attacking DEI isn’t just bad policy—it’s an insult to our history and a threat to our future.
I urge my colleagues to reconsider this reckless assault on progress. The spirit of America isn’t about exclusion—it’s about expanding the circle of opportunity. If we truly believe in liberty and justice for all, then we must defend DEI, not destroy it.
The fight for inclusion isn’t new. It’s the same fight that birthed this nation. And it’s a fight we must continue.
