By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) is facing criticism after a student alleged that the school is using an “accreditation loophole” to continue teaching diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)concepts despite Alabama’s 2024 divisive concepts law.
The law bans DEI instruction in public universities but allows exceptions for material required to meet accreditation standards. A student shared Spring 2025 course materials with 1819 News showing Auburn’s architecture program taught topics such as social justice, environmental equity, and economic resilience, citing accreditation from the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) as justification.
Instructors reportedly told students the content was “100% legal” under the accreditation clause. Critics accused Auburn of promoting political agendas in the classroom, while others defended the program’s approach.
“They’re going nuts because redlining and building bridges that separate specific demographic communities is being taught,” one observer said. In fact, federal and professional design standards require students to understand historic inequities in planning and accessibility as part of ethical architectural practice.
Another defender mocked critics’ outrage: “Are you telling me an architect needs to think about people with disabilities when designing a building!?! Crazy! No, seriously, people mad about this stuff are nuts.”
Both comments underscore that equity, accessibility, and inclusion are not partisan ideas, but professional obligationsunder national accreditation and federal law.
State Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover) said she plans to file legislation to remove the carveout, arguing that universities should not use accreditation to bypass state law. Auburn University has not commented publicly but maintains that its programs comply with both state and national standards.