The University of Southern California recently merged its Office of Inclusion and Diversity Team with its Culture Team after the Trump administration threatened to cut the federal funds of universities with DEI programs.
But the private, elite university continues to offer racially themed graduation parties and dorm sections for black, Latino and LGBTQ students — this despite recent guidance from the Office for Civil Rights that argued federal law prohibits using race in decisions pertaining to student housing and graduation ceremonies.
A USC webpage lists commencement ceremonies slated for this May for Asian and Pacific Islanders, as well as a “Black Graduate Celebration,” “Latinx/e Graduate Celebration” and a “Lavender Graduate Celebration.” Also listed are events for veterans, Greek Life, and athletes.
Its themed living learning communities also remain on tap. While its website states eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, or sexual orientation, themes include the “Rainbow Floor,” as well as “Latinx/e” and Asian and Pacific Islander sections.