Students Protest Amid Suresh Garimella's Installation as UA President

At the installation of Suresh Garimella as the 23rd president of the University of Arizona, tensions surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs were palpable as students protested nearby. The university has faced backlash for erasing its DEI initiatives in response to pressure from the Trump administration, leading many students to voice their concerns through demonstrations. Protesters chanted slogans demanding the preservation of cultural resource centers and DEI commitments, emphasizing the importance of these programs for student support and cultural celebration. While Garimella spoke about the university's future and commitment to Arizona, he did not address the pressing DEI issues raised by the demonstrators. Faculty members also expressed their trust in Garimella's leadership, highlighting the need for protection against state violence and support for all students. As protests continue, the commitment to DEI remains a critical point of contention at the university.