Superintendent Ryan Walters Calls For Elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programs

KTUL - December 15, 2023 6:15 am

State Superintendent Ryan Walters (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — In a statement Wednesday, Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters called for the elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs and praised Gov. Kevin Stitt for taking steps against them.

“DEI rightfully should be known as discrimination, exclusion, and indoctrination. It does not represent American values,” said Walters in a press release. “Governor Stitt is right for taking a strong step to protect Oklahomans from these discriminatory programs. We must not distort important historical events that push liberal indoctrination, and our curriculum must not teach identity politics.”

DEI programs aim to promote and support diversity in all forms such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and ability to address any form of discrimination and bias in workplace and educational environments.

In a press release, Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, issued the following statement regarding Walters’s call:

I commend Superintendent Walters for rejecting the American Library Association standards. In my experience with the Superintendent, I have found him to be transparent and forthcoming with information, and we’ve had a great working relationship.

Walters was sworn into office a mere 11 months ago. He is actively working to enhance our education system, addressing long-standing challenges that desperately need improvement. With just under a year as Superintendent, Walters and his team have implemented a teacher signing bonus, worked with Tulsa Public Schools to improve student outcomes, revised dozens of internal policies, and formed partnerships with organizations that align with Oklahoma values.

I hope all Oklahomans continue to honor and support our teachers. We have incredible teachers who remain dedicated to teaching and providing our students the best possible learning environment. Thank you, teachers. You are greatly appreciated!

 

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