A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the University of Wisconsin System regarding diversity communications on February 4, 2025. The request was made by The Sconi, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The Sconi is seeking access to all emails sent or received by any university employee within the last 12 months that contain any of the following words: BIPOC, Indigenous, Latinx, Diversity, and Non-white. The purpose of this request is to gain insight into how these terms are being used in the university’s internal communications.
In addition to the email records, The Sconi has also requested all DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) statements issued or used within the last 12 months by the university for any official purpose. This includes but is not limited to hiring, admissions, and policy communications.
As a media organization committed to transparency and accountability in public institutions, we believe access to these records is essential for fulfilling our professional responsibilities. We have therefore requested a fee waiver as a media professional under the Wisconsin Open Records Law.
The Sconi continues its commitment towards holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public through comprehensive reporting on important issues such as diversity and inclusion.
