TY  - JOUR
AB  - Despite documented harms of anti-“DEI” laws, little is known about the mechanisms that shape implementation to give these laws expanded and suppressive meaning. Guided by legal mobilization theory and repressive legalism, we examine how institutional actors implement legislation restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at a public university. Findings reveal a three-phase implementation process shaped by legal ambiguity and external threats that give the law its meaning, extending beyond its text to advance its “spirit.” We show how anticipatory appeasement, managerial processes, and race-evasive norms create the conditions for repressive legalism to generate a suppressive form of compliance that normalizes restrictions on permissible activities. We discuss implications for equity, institutional autonomy, and higher education’s mission to serve the public good.
AU  - Pelota, Jackie
AU  - Garces, Liliana M.
AU  - Morse Bentley Epstein, Eliza 
AU  - Cruz Ngaosi, Nicole 
AU  - Khalayleh, Noor 
PY  - 2026
ST  - Understanding the Construction of Compliance with Anti-“DEI” Legislation
TI  - Understanding the Construction of Compliance with Anti-“DEI” Legislation
UR  - http://www.edworkingpapers.com/ai26-1463
ER  -