In a significant development that has ignited a firestorm of controversy and debate, an administrator at Arizona State University (ASU) was reportedly captured on audio by an undercover journalist stating, “We Are DEI.” This assertion, allegedly made in response to direct questioning, has been seized upon by critics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, who view it as confirmation of their long-held concerns about the prioritization of these programs within higher education institutions.
The incident, as reported by Corey A. DeAngelis, a prominent school choice advocate and a figure often associated with the critique of contemporary educational policies, suggests a direct and perhaps unreserved embrace of DEI principles by a university administrator. The context of the interaction, with an undercover journalist, raises questions about the nature of the inquiry and the administrator’s awareness of the potential implications of their statement. However, the core of the news story lies in the alleged direct admission of the university’s identity being synonymous with DEI.
DeAngelis, who has been a vocal critic of what he describes as “woke” ideologies permeating academic institutions, presented this information as a “BREAKING” news item, underscoring its perceived importance. His framing of the story positions the administrator’s statement not as an isolated remark, but as indicative of a broader institutional ethos at ASU. The implication is that DEI is not merely a set of programs or policies, but a fundamental characteristic of the university’s identity and operational framework.
This alleged statement is likely to fuel ongoing national discussions about the role and impact of DEI in universities. Proponents of DEI argue that these initiatives are crucial for fostering inclusive environments, addressing historical inequities, and preparing students for a diverse world. They contend that embracing DEI is essential for social justice and for creating a more equitable society. From this perspective, an administrator confirming that their institution “is DEI” would be seen as a positive affirmation of commitment to these important values.
Conversely, critics, including DeAngelis, often argue that DEI initiatives can lead to reverse discrimination, stifle free speech, and promote ideological conformity. They may view the administrator’s statement as evidence of an overemphasis on identity politics at the expense of traditional academic merit or a broader, more inclusive vision of education. The concern is that institutions are becoming more focused on ideological alignment than on academic excellence and universal principles.
The specific details surrounding the undercover journalist’s investigation, including the identity of the journalist and the full transcript or recording of the conversation, are crucial for a complete understanding of the event. Without this granular detail, the statement remains a powerful assertion that is open to interpretation and ideological framing. However, the mere fact that such a statement was allegedly made and publicly reported by a prominent critic has already had a significant impact on the discourse surrounding DEI in higher education.
Arizona State University, as a large and prominent public research university, is often a focal point for discussions on educational trends and policies. Any perceived shift or strong stance on issues like DEI at such an institution is likely to attract considerable attention from policymakers, educators, students, and the general public. The ensuing debate is expected to continue, with different stakeholders drawing vastly different conclusions from this single reported statement.
This incident highlights the deeply polarized nature of conversations surrounding DEI and the power of carefully framed narratives in shaping public perception. The impact of this alleged “We Are DEI” statement will likely resonate within academic circles and beyond, contributing to the ongoing debate about the future direction of American higher education. The core of the news, therefore, is the direct alleged confession of an ASU administrator linking the institution’s identity to DEI, as presented by Corey A. DeAngelis.
Source: Corey A. DeAngelis
Corey A. DeAngelis, school choice evangelist: BREAKING: Arizona State University administrator caught telling an undercover journalist that “We Are DEI.”. #breaking
— @DeAngelisCorey May 1, 2026
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