The Texas Tech University System has implemented new restrictions on how professors can address race and gender in their classrooms. Announced on March 4, 2024, the policy prohibits educators from advocating that any race or sex is “inherently superior” to another, effectively curtailing discussions that could promote racial or gender-based prejudice.
This policy mirrors similar actions taken by the Texas A&M System in November 2023, which imposed limits on faculty discussions surrounding race and gender ideology. Under the new directives, faculty members are barred from teaching that there are more than two genders, male and female, as part of a compliance measure with state law and federal guidelines.
The memo outlining the policy states that professors must submit any course content related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and race for review. Approval is required from department heads, deans, and the Board of Regents, which oversees the system’s five campuses that serve approximately 64,000 students. The policy is effective immediately.
Compliance with State and Federal Law
Chancellor of the Texas Tech University System, Richard Creighton, emphasized that the new guidelines are essential for adhering to “state and federal law, Board of Regents policy, and Chancellor directives.” This initiative is part of a broader review of educational content mandated by Senate Bill 37, which requires governing boards to scrutinize the courses necessary for graduation.
The new policy is particularly notable as Texas Tech has been under scrutiny for its previous directive, issued by former Chancellor Tedd Mitchell, which restricted discussions on gender to only two categories since September 2023. Mitchell justified the guidance by citing a presidential executive order and a letter from Texas Governor Greg Abbott, both of which align gender classification with biological sex.
While the policy does not explicitly ban discussions on race or gender identity, it imposes stringent conditions that could lead to self-censorship among faculty. Professors are prohibited from presenting individuals as “inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive” or suggesting that they should face discrimination based on their race or sex.
Concerns Over Academic Freedom
Critics of the policy argue that its vagueness may lead to widespread censorship in academic settings. Greg Greubel, an attorney with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, expressed concerns that the rules may stifle discussions on controversial topics related to race and gender. He stated that the initiative contradicts the fundamental mission of universities to expose students to diverse perspectives.
“It’s hard to call it an education if you have to just memorize what the state says is approved,” Greubel remarked, urging students and faculty to challenge these restrictions.
As similar curriculum reviews are underway at various university systems across Texas, there is a growing call for transparency and the protection of academic freedom. Critics maintain that limiting discussions on race and gender undermines the educational experience by fostering an environment of compliance rather than critical engagement.
The Texas Tech University System’s new policy marks a significant shift in educational practices, reflecting broader trends in how institutions navigate issues of race and gender in the current socio-political climate. As these discussions evolve, the implications for faculty and students alike remain to be seen.
