Queen Creek Axes Taxpayer-Funded DEI Training Initiatives

In a decisive move, the Queen Creek Town Council has adopted Resolution #1611-24, rejecting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives deemed discriminatory against individuals based on race and gender. The council’s unanimous vote on Wednesday aims to prevent the use of taxpayer funds on policies that promote what they consider divisive ideologies.

Councilman Travis Padilla emphasized the town’s commitment to fostering unity through individual achievements rather than political divides. “In Queen Creek, we want to focus on things that unite us like individual success and achievement,” he stated, outlining the intention behind the new ordinance.

The ordinance clarifies the council’s stance on employment practices, asserting that all recruitment must adhere to merit-based principles. It explicitly prohibits any requirement for applicants or employees to endorse policies that favor or discriminate against individuals due to race or gender. Furthermore, it disallows supporting affirmative action initiatives in hiring, promotion, or transfers.

The new law also prohibits training or educational programs that promote concepts of racial or gender superiority, unconscious bias, or any ideology that assigns guilt based on race or gender. The policy additionally makes it clear that while the town acknowledges external training may address these topics, it will not conduct internal classes focused exclusively on them.

The updates to Queen Creek’s personnel policy signal a broader commitment to transparency and fairness in local governance. Austin VanDerHeyden, Director of Municipal Affairs at the Goldwater Institute, highlighted the contrast between Queen Creek and nearby towns, particularly Gilbert, which has been criticized for mandatory DEI training for new hires.

“Queen Creek stands in stark contrast to localities that embrace divisive ideologies on taxpayer funds,” VanDerHeyden stated. He framed this ordinance as part of a larger movement against DEI practices nationwide, which, according to him, often serve as litmus tests for ideological conformity in hiring processes.

In conclusion, the decision by Queen Creek’s council reflects an effort to prioritize merit-based hiring and maintain focus on substantive community issues rather than identity politics. This shift has been positively received by local residents who seek assurance that their elected officials are dedicated to the town’s interests.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.