For Daniela Pintor-Mendoza, the efforts to abolish diversity, equality and inclusion initiatives in higher education literally hit home.
The University of Iowa sophomore has been part of a campus housing option known as a living learning community where students interested in Latino culture and experiences live and study together. But next fall, this option is going away, prompted by President Donald Trump’s expansive executive order rolling back DEI programs.
“(It’s) a small part of home away from home. It keeps us going. It keeps us motivated. It keeps us surrounded by people who encourage us to be part of this campus,” said Pintor-Mendoza, who said she is scrambling to find new housing and a new place to feel a sense of belonging.