DEI-Related Presidential Executive Orders—Frequently Asked Questions
Current as of February 20, 2025
Boston University is committed to maintaining a community that fosters inclusivity, integrity, and positive impact. We share the information below in an effort to keep the community informed.
I have read that recent executive orders require universities to change their approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Should I make any changes to programs for which I have responsibility?
The University is evaluating the impact of the recent executive orders, memos, agency guidance, and policy statements to the Boston University community and the important work our faculty and staff do every day.
The University will continue to monitor new guidance and developments and will inform you if it is determined that changes are required.
If you have questions about the impact of the executive orders on your specific program or activity, please contact the University’s Office of the General Counsel at ogc@bu.edu.
I heard that, in mid-February, the US Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights issued new guidance on how colleges approach diversity, equity, and inclusion. What does that mean for BU or the program I run?
The Office of the General Counsel is reviewing the guidance and units will be informed of what actions, if any, are needed.
My job includes activities related to diversity, equity, or inclusion. Will my job title or duties be changing?
We understand that some faculty and staff have concerns about the impact of the new administration’s actions on their job titles and responsibilities. The University continues to evaluate the impact of the recent executive orders on the University’s activities and to monitor additional guidance as it is being released, and will inform you if it is determined that changes are required. If you have questions about your specific job title or duties, please contact your direct supervisor or BU Human Resources at HRcomp@bu.edu.
In light of the new executive orders, I have questions about whether my program or activity abides by federal law and University guidelines. Who should I talk to?
My federally funded research may involve diversity, equity, or inclusion. Do I need to stop my research?
How can I learn about future developments and updates?
The University has a team focused on assessing executive orders and related guidance. The University expects to know more in the coming weeks as federal agencies issue additional guidance, and the University will add further information to this page as it becomes available.
I teach a course with content that might be considered to fall under the areas of diversity, equity, or inclusion. Do I need to change my course content?
You do not have to change your course content. Language in the executive order concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion activities at federally funded institutions of higher education states that it does not apply to faculty speech in the context of courses taught in academic programs.
Do the executive orders relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices affect Boston University’s commitment to free speech and expression?
I am feeling worried and upset about these issues. Where can I turn for help?
For information on Boston University policies related to recent federal actions, please visit our Federal Actions page.