The University of Wisconsin Office of Human Resources (OHR) is discontinuing networking events aimed at retaining people of color on staff and faculty, according to an email obtained by Madison365. OHR’s Office of Equity, Inclusion and Employee Well-Being (EIEW) previously created the BIPOC Network, which hosted monthly events for people of color and women of color.
Several hundred employees have opted into the network, which recently received the following email:
“In response to uncertainty associated with recent federal actions and executive orders, and in alignment with recent campus-wide guidance on fiscal controls, the Office of Human Resources has opted to discontinue the BIPOC and BIWOC employee network gatherings and meetings previously facilitated by the Office of Equity, Inclusion and Employee Well-Being.
“The BIPOC and BIWOC Employee Networks will remain, and employees should feel welcome to continue to engage with their colleagues through these networks. The Office of Human Resources remains committed to cultivating a working environment where all employees can grow and thrive.”
