Our Story
Back then…
Texas Students for DEI (TXS4DEI) formed in March 2023 when graduate students at the University of Texas at Austin united against Senate Bill 17 (SB 17). Introduced by Senator Brandon Creighton and backed by Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, this bill directly threatened marginalized communities by targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion offices in public higher education. What began as a campus response quickly grew into a statewide, volunteer-run movement.
Despite our tireless advocacy, SB17 passed both the House and Senate on May 28, 2023. But our story didn't end there—it was just the beginning. We monitored the rollout and institutional overcompliance, witnessing firsthand the damage done to our communities, especially our undocumented members. In 2025, we used our experiences to fight back with proactive legislation, empowering our voices to continue the fight long after the public eye turned away.
… and now.
The initial battle may seem over, but our fire was never put out. Even though many of us have since graduated, we remain deeply involved today because we care so much about this work. We prove that while the label of "student" is temporary, being a Texas Student for DEI is forever.
Today, TXS4DEI is an entirely grassroots network and an intentional community space for students, alumni, and educators. As state crackdowns erase campus resources and make it difficult for marginalized people to thrive, we serve as an alternative sanctuary to reclaim lost values through legislative advocacy, community building, and education.