I read that if SIU search committees do not hire a minority faculty member, they must submit a written explanation. That seems ridiculous. I would say that if a search committee did not hire the most qualified personnel regardless of race, then that search committee's goals, as well as those of the University, should be called into question. While diversity in a University's faculty is an important goal, it is far more important to provide a quality education for students. That means hiring the most qualified personnel, regardless of race or ethnicity.
True multiculturalism means being inclusive of all racial and ethnic groups.
It does not mean choosing one group over another. The most qualified and talented instructors will provide the best education for SIU's students. I will use a word that has been bandied about far too often lately. SIU should strive to bring in the most talented and qualified instructors, regardless of race or ethnicity. This document may be distributed electronically for personal use only, provided it is distributed in its entirety and includes this notice.