Alabama's new law banning taxpayer-funded diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) departments is set to go into effect in less than three weeks. While several public colleges have already disbanded their DEI departments, the City of Huntsville is apparently flouting the law by hiring a new DEI Director with a top salary of just under $145,000.
The position of Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion was first posted to the city's online job board in August, and the application period closes Thursday. The salary ranges from $85,404.80 - $144,996.80, depending on qualifications.
According to the job posting, one of the director's essential functions includes "insuring [sic] the practice of equitable hiring, cultural awareness/sensitivity, anti-bias behaviors, interpersonal skills and effective communication."
"Considerable knowledge of diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, policies, and initiatives in the public and private workforce and various forms of diversity, including race, ethnicity, religion, and gender" is also required.
Gov. Kay Ivey signed Senate Bill 129 into law last March, effective October 1.
The bill prohibits "certain public entities," including state agencies, schools, and colleges, from having DEI departments or programs or promoting DEI initiatives. It also prohibits schools from teaching "divisive concepts" and allowing males to use female bathrooms and vice versa.
Those working in a public capacity who violate the act could lose their job, the bill states.
State Rep. Ed Oliver (R-Dadeville), who sponsored the bill in the House, said legislators would be "watching very closely" how schools and state agencies adapt to the DEI ban. Oliver told 1819 News that it would apply to Huntsville's Office of DEI, which was established in August 2021 under then-DEI Director Kenny Anderson.
Gadsden also recently doubled down on maintaining its DEI Director position, with Mayor Craig Ford practically daring the legislature to respond.
"To paraphrase Rhett Butler: Frankly, I don't give a damn about that bill," Ford told 1819 News in April. "It doesn't improve the life of a single citizen in my city. Gadsden residents want their roads fixed, their streets cleaned, and a whisper of hope about their economic future and quality of life."
To connect with the story's author or comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com or find him on Twitter and Facebook.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
