On Wednesday afternoon, about 200 members from the Duke community and Durham residents gathered to protest against the Trump administration’s move to end diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, particularly those affecting undocumented communities.
Many in the crowd criticized Duke’s policy on protests, calling it restrictive and a threat to free speech. They felt it could lead to harassment of student activists.
The protest featured a mix of local groups, such as the Duke Graduate Student Union, Jewish Voice for Peace, Socialist Alternative, and others. They met at Trinity Park around 5 p.m. and marched around East Campus.
One speaker emphasized that universities like Duke have both the privilege and duty to support DEI policies. They mentioned a recent directive from the Trump administration that requires universities to eliminate DEI programs quickly or risk losing federal funding. The speaker pointed out Duke’s substantial endowment of $11.9 billion, arguing that the university can take a stand and positively influence the community.
As the group marched, they chanted, “Duke, Duke, don’t comply. Don’t dismantle DEI,” while onlookers showed their support with honks and cheers. Although the organizers intended to march across campus, police blocked their path. They shifted to circle the East Campus Loop instead.
Some participants, despite being aware of Duke’s protest policies, chose to step onto University property, while others remained on public sidewalks. Maggie Heraty, one of the organizers, noted the importance of ensuring the voices of both Duke students and Durham residents were heard in this political moment.
The diverse crowd also included representatives advocating for various causes. Kelly Corwin from Socialist Alternative highlighted the broader issue linked to the current political climate, suggesting that fighting back against one administration’s actions won’t be enough without systemic change. Dillon Sandhu from the Duke Graduate Student Union expressed pride in the protest’s community spirit, even if it felt smaller than past demonstrations.
Attendees were hopeful that the protest would encourage the University to listen and respond to community concerns. Julia Borbely-Brown, a Durham resident, expressed her desire for Duke to understand the neighborhood’s backing for these critical issues.
