Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into the University of North Texas (UNT) over allegations of promoting what he describes as “radical DEI ideology.” This inquiry is rooted in accusations that the university continues to teach principles related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), despite a ban imposed by federal and state authorities.
Paxton’s concerns were triggered by a video that reportedly shows a Field Education Coordinator from UNT’s Social Work Department discussing methods to circumvent the DEI ban. According to the Attorney General, the footage reveals an attempt by staff to continue teaching DEI concepts under different terminology.
UNT Under Scrutiny
In response to the findings, Paxton has reached out to the Dean of the College of Public Affairs and Human Sciences, demanding clarification regarding the video’s content.
“The DEI ideology has been a calamitous way that radical leftists have pushed a woke agenda in our educational institutions,” Paxton asserted. “Texas law is unequivocal: these DEI policies are incompatible with our state-funded institutions. Last year, UNT leadership failed to act against the left-wing extremism celebrated by radical students. Now, it seems their staff is openly disregarding state law to promote radical DEI ideology. This should lead to immediate termination. Texas deserves better than a UNT leadership that allows the most extreme elements of the radical Left to influence its campus.”
Context of the Investigation
This investigation is part of a broader pattern of controversy surrounding policy changes in Texas higher education. Following a 2025 presidential executive order that defined gender strictly as male and female and prohibited public officials from endorsing opposing ideologies, multiple universities have faced significant backlash from both staff and students.
Recently, Texas A&M University experienced turmoil when a philosophy professor resigned amid objections to their policy against “gender ideology” and “race ideology.” This came on the heels of a scandal involving the removal of Plato’s writings from coursework, a move that sparked considerable debate.
The situation escalated at Texas A&M after another covert video surfaced, showing a professor discussing transgender issues in a children’s literature class. This led to the professor’s dismissal, administrative demotions, the resignation of the university president, and a revision of guidelines to avoid similar controversies in the future.
In a similar vein, Texas Tech University has also instituted new regulations aimed at curtailing discussions about race and gender in the classroom.
