Iowa State University students are expressing their dissatisfaction with a state law that has resulted in the closure of the university’s Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion office.
On Thursday, a group of passionate individuals from the Ames community joined forces and marched from the Iowa State Memorial Union to Parks Library. Their purpose was to express their strong opposition to Senate File 2435.
Starting from July 1, 2025, universities are prohibited by law from initiating, supporting, or financing DEI offices or positions, unless it is mandated by law or necessary for accreditation.
ISU students have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the law on various university offices. They fear that offices such as the Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success, the Multicultural Student Affairs Office, and the Margaret Sloss Women’s Center may be forced to shut down as a result.
Students against SF-2435
Erin O’Brien, a student at Iowa State University and member of the ISU Students Against SF-2435 coalition, stated that the coalition was formed by a group of dedicated Iowa State students with the aim of combating the potential consequences of the law.
“We urge the university to do everything in its power to preserve these programs and resources,” O’Brien expressed. “While we understand that if the Board of Regents interprets the law in a particular manner, the university will be compelled to comply.”
Hello! The ‘Book of Mormon’ has announced the addition of a second show to its tour stop at Stephens Auditorium.
Board of Regents, universities respond to law
Iowa State made the decision to shut down the DEI in April 2024. As a result, two filled positions and three vacant ones were eliminated, resulting in a total of $789,000 in salaries and benefits being left behind.
Behind the scenes with Discovery Channel’s ‘RV There Yet?’ in Ames and Boone
Opposition seeks diversity, equity and inclusion resources on campus
The DEI office provided students with a range of resources, including financial aid and support for mental and physical well-being.
According to O’Brien, the Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success, the Multicultural Student Association, and the Margaret Sloss Women’s Center still offer most of these resources. However, the wording of Senate File 2435 poses a threat to the potential closure of all three organizations.
When choosing a school to attend, Iowa State student Silvera Dudenhoefer emphasized the importance of campus diversity, equity, and inclusion resources. Dudenhoefer also acknowledged the significant impact these resources have on others.
According to Dudenhoefer, having connections with people who share similar experiences can play a crucial role in selecting a school. Dudenhoefer clarifies that the intention behind creating spaces for underrepresented groups is not to show favoritism, as some may assume.
Old Chicago in Ames will be closing next week, so if you have a VIP mug, make sure to pick it up soon.
Counter protestor attends Thursday’s rally
Outside Parks Library on Thursday, a counter-protestor stood with signs bearing a warning: “God’s Judgment Is Coming.” As students chanted phrases like “Stop the bill” and “DEI saves lives,” the individual responded with the statement, “God hates this.”
The atmosphere was charged with emotion as both protestors and counter-protesters passionately expressed their beliefs, yet the demonstration remained peaceful.
Once the Ames council gave their approval, Carr Park, which used to be a public pool, is now undergoing a transformation into an agility course.
Students plan to keep momentum going
“We’re the ones who are putting money in their pockets; they should listen to us,” Dudenhoefer emphasized.
You can get in touch with Celia Brocker, a skilled reporter covering government, crime, politics, and education for the Ames Tribune, by emailing her at [email protected].
Iowa State students unite against state law that closed down the university’s DEI office