University Responds As Government Bans "Unacceptable" DEI Words And Threatens Some Who Use Them

UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA 

DROPS THE WORDS "ALASKA NATIVE" 

FROM WEBSITES 

Universities, National Science Foundation
& Other Federally-Funded Organizations
Now Have Lists Of Words That Are Banned 

Banned List Given To National Science Foundation Includes 

"Equality," "Historically," "Sense Of Belonging," And "Woman" 

(Wikipedia) 

What Will This Mean For Alaska Natives?

 "Alaska Native" Has Already Been Removed From The University's

Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program Websites 

Many common words and phrases that might be used while casually referring to Alaska Native culture and local rural Alaskan issues are now forbidden in at least one federally-funded program. 

In early February, 2025, the National Science Foundation received a list of forbidden "DEI" words that could not be used. ("DEI" means "Diversity", "Equity" and "Inclusion.")

A scientist posted the list. If the government found any of these words in a sweep of their work documents they could get funds pulled from a program. 

The Copper River Country Journal reviewed the National Science Foundation's list of objectionable words, and found some of the more common concepts that might be mentioned in a small Native American community by a tribe. A small portion of the list follows: 

U. S. GOVERNMENT'S FORBIDDEN WORDS  

Advocate • Community Diversity • Cultural Differences & Disabilities • Diverse Community • Equal Opportunity  • Equality • Ethnicity • 

Female • Historically • Minority • Race & Ethnicity 

Racial Diversity • Racially • Sense of Belonging 

Trauma • Under Served • Women 

THE HEADLINES

FEBRUARY 25TH, 2025