COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — In part due to Ohio’s new anti-DEI higher education law, Senate Bill 1, Ohio State University dorm rooms have a much narrower theme this year.
In years past, resident advisers, or RAs, have decorated the residence hall floors they lead with creative themes, often featuring pop culture references and famous media. But spokesperson Dave Isaacs confirmed RAs were asked to stick to Ohio State spirit themes this year.
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“We are committed to providing an open and welcoming environment for all students, including in our residence halls, as we build community throughout our spaces and programming,” Isaacs said. “To assist Resident Advisors in their welcoming programming and public area décor, we have advised them to focus on Ohio State spirit themes.”
Isaacs said the goal was to create a welcoming environment, but Senate Bill 1 was “certainly a factor.” Senate Bill 1 went into effect in late June, banning DEI programming and stopping public universities from endorsing “controversial policies.”…