Brand Standards: Editorial

Complying with HB 261 Style Guide

In 2024, the Utah Legislature passed, and the governor signed, HB261: Equal Opportunity Initiatives, effective July 1, 2024. Utah State University remains committed to its mission of excellence, access, and inclusion for all members of our communities across Utah and will work within the guardrails of state law to ensure our campuses are a place where everyone feels welcome.

USU’s compliance efforts include changes to university policies, procedures, practices, programs, offices, initiatives and required trainings.

This style guide entry is designed for USU’s marketing and communications professionals to provide instruction on how to use the most up-to-date language and ensure compliance with the parameters set by state lawmakers and the Utah System of Higher Education.

Below are examples of suggested language for landing pages, mission statements, student programs, and other uses.

Non-compliant language:

Avoid using diversity, equity, inclusion — together and in any order — or language that promotes discriminatory practices based on “personal identity characteristics.” HB 261 defines "personal identity characteristics" as an individual's race, color, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or gender identity. USU continues to use these terms individually, such as in "Office of Equity," "inclusive excellence," and usage in an academic and or research context. 

Institutions of higher education in Utah may not, among other things:

  • Assert that an individual, by virtue of the individual's personal identity characteristics, is inherently privileged, oppressed, racist, sexist, oppressive, or a victim.
  • Assert that an individual's moral character is determined by the individual's personal identity characteristics.
  • Ascribe values, morals, or ethical codes, privileges, or beliefs to an individual because of the individual's personal identity characteristics, with the exception of religion.

See additional guidance on institutional speech.

Instead, use:

  • Descriptive phrases that emphasize the goals and priorities of the programs
  • Frame programs in terms of success—student success, faculty success, staff success, and community success

Specific examples of words that might be appropriate based on the endeavor’s goals include:

  • all backgrounds
  • belonging
  • differing viewpoints, viewpoint diversity
  • equal opportunity
  • social mobility
  • student well-being
  • campus community building

Example 1 (department statement on website home page)

Original text: The department is home to seven graduate specializations and a thriving undergraduate major. With more than 170 PhDs awarded our alumni network is rapidly growing. Students from many different walks of life have found a home and place of belonging in Logan, Utah. The department’s commitment to seeking and training diverse students and faculty has created a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our mission is to make substantial contributions to the development of new knowledge. Department interests across ethnic/cultural communities, identity, and rural populations develop well rounded, professional and knowledgeable graduates.

Updated text: The department is home to seven graduate specializations and a thriving undergraduate major. With more than 170 PhDs awarded our alumni network is rapidly growing. Students from many different walks of life have found a home and place of belonging in Logan, Utah. The department is committed to seeking and training students and faculty from all backgrounds. Our mission is to make substantial contributions to the development of new knowledge. Department interests across ethnic/cultural communities, identity, and rural populations develop well rounded, professional and knowledgeable graduates.

Example 2 (from a club promotional brochure)

Original text: Student organizations serve as dynamic catalysts for shaping the culture of campuses. They provide a sense of belonging and understanding, helping to bridge the gap between individual experiences and the broader college community. In doing so, they contribute to a vibrant and supportive campus environment. They also function as support networks for students, offering mentorship and guidance to members navigating the complexities of college life. Our clubs are open to ALL students who are interested and joining.

Updated text: No update needed. This text is not in violation of HB 261.

Example 3 (from marketing information)

Original Text: There are many options that can be used to promote a cause, show inclusion for minoritized groups and identities, and support cultural celebrations.

Updated Text: There are many options that can be used to promote campus community building, support cultural celebrations, and foster belonging for all individuals across different geographies, cultures, faith traditions, physical abilities and genders.

Example 4 (highlight of a 2023 event)

Original text: The TRIO department organized a visit to the USU main campus in Logan for students from Blanding camps on September 22 and 23, 2023. This was made possible with the assistance of NASNTI II grant funding and in collaboration with the Division of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI). During their visit, the students had the opportunity to tour the campus and its eight different colleges, meet with DEI, attend a musical at the Ellen Eccles Theatre, sample cuisine from around the world, go to an AFS mentors tailgate event, and even attend a USU Aggie football game. The students were able to go to the DEI Celebrando Nuestras Raices (Celebrating Our Roots) to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month.

Updated text: No update needed. This is a historical event that predates the July 1, 2024 effective date of the legislation. No changes necessary.