Critics are having a field day mocking Rice University’s course titled “Afrochemistry: The Study of Black-Life Matter.” According to reports, the course addresses “Inequities in chemistry and chemical education.” However, critics argue that the course is another example of misplaced priorities.
The course, which Rice University posted on its spring 2024 course schedule, is for undergraduate students. Also, it includes a final exam, which has further infuriated critics. Many have condemned the class since the news became public on social media.
Several X users slammed the university for trying to force diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives into the curriculum. They kicked against the course, especially for combining DEI with chemistry. In addition, others questioned the thought process behind the course and its importance.
Rice University’s course description states, “Students will apply chemical tools and analysis to understand Black life in the U.S.” Also, the school wrote, “Students will implement African American sensibilities to analyze chemistry.”
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In addition, the school wrote, “Diverse historical and contemporary scientists, intellectuals, and chemical discoveries will inform personal reflections and proposals for addressing inequities in chemistry and chemical education.” However, this description made many X users criticize the course.
“This course will be accessible to students from different backgrounds, including STEM and non-STEM disciplines,” the description continued. The description also noted that the course requires no “Prior knowledge of chemistry or African American studies.”
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However, Rice University considers the course to be an entry-level course open to anyone hoping to work in the field of chemistry. With the ongoing war against DEI initiatives nationwide, many accused the school of forcing DEI into the classroom. Several advocates are calling for the death of DEI across U.S. schools and agencies.
Hence, prominent leaders are stepping down from their positions. After the post became public, Author John LeFevre spotlighted the course, calling it “Wild.” He also called out the systemic infusion of DEI, saying, “DEI is coming for the hard sciences at Rice University.” LeFevre’s post on X went viral, and X users mocked the school.
“The first class discusses how the patriarchy tells marginalized folks not to mix ammonia and bleach,” an X user joked. Similarly, another X user said, “Reminds me of my roommate who had a book, physics for Christians. Like, uh, you think it changes?”
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In addition, Filmmaker Eli Steele called out Rice University’s post. He wrote, “This was not the ‘Dream’ that MLK had.” Also, Libertas Institute president Connor Boyack contributed to the discourse. However, his response, although short, conveyed the message. He wrote, “Skip college.”
Substack writer John Feehery also condemned the course. He wrote, “Is African chemistry different from Asian chemistry or European chemistry? I am confused.” Many others criticized Rice University, with some suggesting the course must be some sort of prank or parody.
Also, X users took the opportunity to criticize DEI programs in general. They requested a total overhaul of the program with the #DEIMustDIE hashtag.
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