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MSU spared from fed investigations into alleged racial discrimination in DEI
In a recent update, Michigan State University will not be the subject of a federal investigation into alleged racial discrimination, despite earlier concerns. The U.S. Department of Education announced on Friday that 51 universities are now under investigation for their diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This follows a controversial directive issued last month, which declared that any college program, scholarship, or admissions decision based on race would violate federal anti-discrimination laws.
The possibility of an investigation at MSU surfaced after a January executive order targeted universities with large endowments. Federal agencies had requested certification from MSU to ensure compliance with these new rules. While the university reviewed its programs, no formal investigation followed.
Meanwhile, several Big Ten schools, including Ohio State and the University of Michigan, are being investigated for participating in programs like “The Ph.D. Project,” which supports minority doctoral students. Other schools, such as Grand Valley State, are under scrutiny for race-based scholarships.
With recent staff cuts at the Department of Education, the future of these investigations remains uncertain.
Motown leaves lasting impact on music, culture
When you think of some of the most iconic songs from the 20th century, Motown is likely at the top of your list. The Detroit-based record label became a hit machine in the 60s and 70s, producing unforgettable music by Black artists whose influence still resonates across genres today.
But the story of Black music in America stretches far beyond Motown’s 1959 launch. Michigan State University assistant professor Richard Desinord explains that the roots of African American music began during slavery when enslaved people, forbidden from expressing themselves publicly, created their own music in secret. This gave rise to genres like blues, ragtime, and spirituals, which laid the foundation for jazz.
As Black Americans migrated north in the 1920s, their music caught the attention of white audiences. Desinord notes that while white musicians adopted elements of these styles, they often watered them down. Then Motown emerged, offering a platform for Black artists to showcase their authentic sound, putting “Blackness back into Black music.”
For artists like Phoenix Miranda and MSU vocal performance student Tyrell Harris, Motown’s impact is undeniable. Harris finds inspiration in the vocal prowess of legends like Patti LaBelle, while Miranda points to Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On?” as a perfect example of Motown’s blend of meaningful lyrics and soulful sound.
Despite the challenges that Black artists continue to face, both Desinord and Miranda stress that Black music’s influence is woven into the fabric of American culture, from music to fashion. Recognizing this impact, they say, is key to understanding the richness of our cultural history.
Based on original reporting by Emilio Perez Ibarguen and Melody Meyer.
