Reject anti-DEI bill aimed at cities, counties

I urge our state senators to vote “No” on Senate File 507, a bill “that restricts counties and cities in Iowa from establishing or maintaining diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs,” a bill that has already passed in the Iowa House and is on the Senate calendar. This legislation will force cities and counties that haven’t already done it to shut down DEI offices, stripping away critical efforts to ensure fairness and opportunity for all Iowans.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are about making sure every resident has a voice and a place in our communities — this bill is an attack on that progress. We will not be silent, and we will not stop fighting for a more just and inclusive Iowa.

Today, as cities across the world unite against the forces of division, we recognize that this attack on DEI is part of a larger movement of hatred and exclusion, fueled by those in power who seek to silence and oppress. Trump, Musk and others like them are using their influence to erode democracy, strip away rights and normalize discrimination. But we will not stand by as our communities are dismantled — we will rise together, we will resist and we will continue to build a future rooted in justice, inclusion and the power of the people.

Tiaja Butler

Cedar Rapids