University of Cincinnati Drops ‘African American’ Center Due to DEI Ban

Nationwide — The University of Cincinnati has closed its African American Cultural and Resource Center after a new state law banned diversity programs. However, Black students and alumni are keeping traditions alive and building an independent foundation to fund the work.

The center, known as AACRC, opened in 1991 after years of effort by Black student groups. But this summer, UC announced its closure to comply with Ohio’s Senate Bill 1, which bans state universities from supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion. The decision sparked protests on campus, but by June, UC leadership shifted its policies to follow the law, as reported by WVXU.

For many in UC’s Black community, the loss of the AACRC was devastating. The center had been a home base for students and a reminder of the university’s history of segregation and racial struggle. Current students and alumni quickly decided to act rather than let their legacy fade.

Black student organizations have already stepped in to host annual traditions. The Tyehimba Black Graduation Celebration moved off-campus, and the welcome event for incoming Black students was fully organized by students without UC staff. Many of those staff members were reassigned but continue to quietly encourage students.

At the same time, UC alumni who once fought to create the center formed the Cincy Cultural Resource Center Foundation. This independent nonprofit, funded by donations, plans to support mentorship programs, cultural events, and even a possible off-campus home for the community. Alumni leaders say the shift to private support is necessary in today’s political climate.

The AACRC once honored trailblazers like Georgia Elizabeth Beasley, one of UC’s first Black graduates in 1925, who overcame segregation and barriers on campus. Alumni fear that without the center, important history may be erased, but they are determined to preserve it outside UC’s control.

Student leaders like Ife Oshunniyi, chair of the United Black Student Association, say the community remains strong. Even without the university’s backing, they are committed to rebuilding programs and claiming space on campus.

“While they may be taking these letters down, this building is still here,” Oshunniyi said. “And this space is still ours if we want it to be ours. So, we want people to still come in here and to take up the space because at the end of the day, we are a community more than we’re a building.”