A University of Utah lawyer last week urged faculty to comply with the state’s new prohibition on the “prominent“ display of pride flags and other flags on campus, The Salt Lake Tribune reported.
Deputy general counsel Robert Payne urged faculty in a meeting not to “be a lightning rod to the Legislature” and said state lawmakers “have a lot of power over us,” the newspaper reported. Payne also suggested that if employees tried to get around the law by hanging pride posters instead of flags, legislators might “come back with something worse,” the Tribune reported.
Utah’s Republican-controlled Legislature passed House Bill 77 last month, and Gov. Spencer J. Cox, a Republican, let it become law without signing or vetoing it. When it takes effect May 7, it will ban government entities, including public colleges and universities, from displaying flags on government property “in a prominent location.” Some flags are exempted, such as the U.S. flag and the prisoner of war/missing in action flags.
Trevor Lee, a Republican Utah House member and HB 77’s chief sponsor, told Inside Higher Ed he didn’t file the legislation specifically to ban pride flags. But “that’s just been the biggest, biggest issue of any political flag,” he said. “I mean, it’s not even close.”
Lee said the flags go beyond representing inclusivity. He said, “It’s a sex flag. It tells everyone what sexual ideology you believe in.”
The University of Utah has released guidance online saying the law generally bans pride flags, Juneteenth flags and others from prominent locations. The guidance notes exemptions, including that students and employees can “wear or carry a flag as a personal expression of free speech,” and that employees can decorate their offices with flags “so long as they are not easily visible outside of their personal space (e.g., posted in an office window).”
Payne said the university hasn’t yet decided how it will enforce the flag ban, according to the Tribune. The university’s guidance says, “Flags may also be used as decorations in connection with a brief cultural celebration hosted by the university within a university building,” but can’t be up for more than a week. It’s unclear whether pride will be considered a cultural celebration.
Dr. Nicole DelMastro-Jeffery, former executive director for the DEI and Belonging office and Title IX coordinator at Richland Community College.On January 21, one day after his inauguration, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order he called “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity,” instructing federal agencies to end diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices and programs.
The very next day, Dr. Nicole DelMastro-Jeffery, executive director for the DEI and Belonging office and Title IX coordinator at Richland Community College in Decatur, Illinois, was let go from her non-federal position.
In a sense, DelMastro-Jeffery’s story is familiar. State legislatures across the country have introduced and passed laws curbing DEI at educational institutions, even before Trump issued his order. Since then, a growing number of DEI offices have either shuttered or reorganized, and DEI-focused employees have been dismissed or had their roles changed.
But Illinois has no anti-DEI laws established, despite some competing bills introduced on the House and Senate floor. On February 7, State Sen. Andrew S. Chesney introduced SB2288, calling for the abolishment of DEI programs in departments of the state government. Conversely, on January 29, State Rep. Sonya M. Harper filed HR0077, a bill to affirm DEI programs in local, state, federal, educational and other institutions.
According to DelMastro-Jeffery, in early 2024 when the Biden-Harris administration issued a new Dear Colleague letter which expanded Title IX for the further protection of women and transgender individuals, Richland moved toward implementing those changes. However, by December 2024, she said that Richland “quickly rolled back to the 2020 legislation.”
“Ultimately,” she said, “Going back to 2020 legislative measures decreased protections, not only for transgender community members but women as well.”
For DelMastro-Jeffery, the institutional waffling between Title IX regulations was a red flag, one that should be heeded by other DEI professionals and institutions working to preserve their DEI programs.
“We have rarely considered the legal ramifications of separate laws and how their implementation and adjustments may in fact serve as awareness flags of next moves, like that of chess match players,” she said. “It is my belief that this federal injunction or swift rollback of expanded 2024 Title IX protections should have served as an immediate wakeup call to our DEI community.”
DelMastro-Jeffery arrived at Richland fresh off an internship with the Biden-Harris administration. She said she was thrilled at the chance to apply all she had learned to a rural college environment. Her dismissal, she said, “felt like a triple backlash to both my former public service work, status as a woman of color in higher education, and DEI executive leader.”
Paulette Granberry Russell, CEO and president of the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE), said the attacks on DEI, including Trump’s order, have continued to demonize it, stripping all meaning from the acronym. She intentionally uses the words “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” instead of DEI.
Paulette Granberry Russell, CEO and president of NADOHE.Granberry Russell said she is “disappointed by the failure of institutions that over-complied to the threats to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, rather than taking a stand to say these efforts are not divisive.”
The misinformation disseminated through anti-DEI laws and orders have produced significant misunderstanding in the public sphere, “that somehow efforts associated with advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion is unlawful. That is not the case,” said Granberry Russell.
“We’re seeing what I often refer to as a ‘chilling effect,’ where institutions are preemptively scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts due to political pressure or fear of litigation,” said Granberry Russell.
NADOHE is the lead plaintiff in a federal lawsuit filed by Democracy Forward, a national legal organization of litigators, policy makers, regulators and public educators working to advance democracy. The suit was filed against the Trump Administration in early February calling Trump’s attack on DEI unconstitutional.
Granberry Russell acknowledged that, since the legislation and executive order, many DEI officers and employees have lost their roles. But she does not know how many, as there is no national database tracking these changes.
DelMastro-Jeffery said “this experience has illuminated, for me, the intersection between gender, leadership values, and the importance of pressing on.”
She continued, “Amid the growing dismissal of DEI programming, now diluted to words on a website, we would be negligent to forget the value of diversity and how the world, including systems of education, thrives on it.”
Richland leadership did not respond to requests for comment. Their website still hosts a page for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging and Accessibility, which affirms these as a “core institutional value.”
Finding a meaningful and lasting relationship can be challenging, but there are positive signs that show you’ve found someone special. While red flags often get the most attention, green flags are just as important in recognizing a healthy, fulfilling relationship.
These are the reassuring traits and behaviors that indicate your partner is a great fit for you. In this article, we’ll explore 15 green flags that suggest you’ve found “The One.”
Green Flags you’ve Found the One
15. They Communicate Openly and Honestly
Example: “They always tell me how they feel, even when it’s difficult.”
Explanation: Open and honest communication is a key foundation for a strong relationship. It ensures that both partners are able to express themselves freely and work through challenges together. When someone communicates openly, it builds trust and creates a safe space for vulnerability, preventing misunderstandings and fostering deeper emotional connection.
14. They Respect Your Boundaries
Example: “When I say I need alone time, they understand and don’t pressure me.”
Explanation: Respecting boundaries shows that your partner values your personal space and autonomy. It indicates that they are attentive to your needs and willing to honor them without making you feel guilty. Healthy boundaries are essential for maintaining individuality and fostering mutual respect in a relationship.
13. They Support Your Personal Growth
Example: “They encourage me to pursue new opportunities and support my ambitions.”
Explanation: A partner who supports your personal growth shows that they want you to succeed and flourish as an individual. This means they aren’t threatened by your success, but instead celebrate it. When both partners are encouraged to grow, it strengthens the relationship by fostering a sense of mutual development and fulfillment.
12. They Share Similar Values
Example: “We both believe in honesty, family, and hard work.”
Explanation: Having shared values is a strong indicator of long-term compatibility. While differences in personality and interests can add variety to a relationship, shared core values ensure that both partners are aligned on the important things in life. This alignment creates a strong foundation for navigating life’s challenges together.
11. They Make You Feel Appreciated
Example: “They regularly thank me for the little things I do.”
Explanation: Feeling appreciated in a relationship is crucial for maintaining a positive dynamic. When your partner shows gratitude, it reinforces that they notice your efforts and value your presence. This consistent acknowledgment helps strengthen emotional bonds and fosters a sense of mutual respect and care.
10. They Listen Actively
Example: “When I talk, they really pay attention and engage with what I’m saying.”
Explanation: Active listening shows that your partner is genuinely interested in your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It goes beyond hearing words; they ask questions, offer feedback, and validate your emotions. This level of engagement is a clear sign of emotional investment and care in the relationship.
9. They Are Dependable and Reliable
Example: “I know I can count on them to be there when I need them.”
Explanation: Being able to depend on your partner is key to building trust. When someone is reliable, they follow through on their promises and consistently show up for you in meaningful ways. This dependability provides emotional security and reinforces that you can rely on them during both good times and bad.
8. They Respect Your Opinions
Example: “Even when we disagree, they take the time to understand my point of view.”
Explanation: Respecting your opinions, even when they differ, is a sign of a mature and balanced relationship. It shows that your partner values you as an individual and is open to seeing things from different perspectives. This mutual respect helps maintain harmony and ensures that both partners feel heard and validated.
7. They Share Responsibilities Equally
Example: “We both contribute to household chores and decision-making.”
Explanation: Sharing responsibilities equally demonstrates that your partner sees you as an equal and values fairness in the relationship. Whether it’s household duties, emotional labor, or decision-making, a balanced distribution of responsibilities ensures that neither partner feels overburdened or taken for granted. This creates a sense of teamwork and mutual respect.
6. They Make You Laugh
Example: “We can joke around together, and they always know how to lighten my mood.”
Explanation: Laughter is a powerful tool for building connection and reducing stress. A partner who can make you laugh not only adds joy to your life but also strengthens the emotional bond between you. Sharing moments of humor creates a lighthearted atmosphere in the relationship, helping to navigate challenges with positivity.
5. They Prioritize Time with You
Example: “Even with their busy schedule, they make sure we spend quality time together.”
Explanation: When your partner makes time for you, it shows that they value the relationship and are committed to nurturing it. Prioritizing quality time, whether it’s through shared activities or simple moments together, reinforces the emotional connection and ensures that the relationship remains a top priority amidst other life demands.
4. They Are Emotionally Available
Example: “They’re always open to talking about feelings and don’t shy away from tough conversations.”
Explanation: Emotional availability is a crucial element in a healthy relationship. A partner who is willing to share their feelings and listen to yours fosters an environment of trust and intimacy. This openness strengthens the emotional bond, ensuring that both partners feel supported and understood during both good and challenging times.
3. They Have Healthy Relationships with Others
Example: “They maintain strong, positive relationships with their friends and family.”
Explanation: Observing how your partner interacts with others can be a good indicator of their relationship skills. If they maintain healthy, respectful relationships with friends, family, or colleagues, it often reflects their ability to nurture a positive dynamic with you as well. These strong connections suggest that they understand the value of trust, respect, and communication in all relationships.
2. They Accept You for Who You Are
Example: “I never feel like I have to pretend or change myself around them.”
Explanation: Feeling accepted for who you are is one of the most important green flags in a relationship. When your partner embraces your authentic self, including your quirks, flaws, and strengths, it builds a foundation of unconditional love and acceptance. This sense of security allows you to be vulnerable and fosters a deeper emotional connection.
1. They Envision a Future with You
Example: “We talk about our future plans together, and they include me in their long-term goals.”
Explanation: A partner who talks about the future with you in mind is clearly invested in the relationship. Whether it’s discussing career goals, living arrangements, or starting a family, including you in their plans shows that they see you as a long-term partner. This commitment is a strong indicator that they are serious about building a life together.
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
So you go out on a first date, then, a second, then a third. And this person seems perfect – maybe even too perfect. There’s a good chance they’re just perfect for you. But there’s also a chance there’s something you’re missing. So let’s explore some potential red flags for the date that just seems that little bit TOO perfect.
Red Flags in a Relationship
15. They’re overly charismatic.
Example: “Whenever we’re out, they always seem to charm everyone, but I can’t shake the feeling that it’s all just an act.”
Excessive charm can mask a person’s real intentions. While it’s easy to be captivated by someone who always seems to say the right thing, this charm may be a distraction from deeper issues like dishonesty or manipulation. Charismatic individuals may use their likability to avoid accountability or prevent you from noticing problematic behavior. It’s crucial to assess if the charm is genuine or simply a tool for control.
14. Lack of depth in conversations.
Example: “Every time I try to talk about something meaningful, they quickly change the subject to something light and superficial.”
Surface-level conversations are common when you’re just getting to know someone, but if they consistently avoid deeper topics, it could signal emotional unavailability. If they steer clear of meaningful discussions about emotions, values, or future plans, it may indicate that they’re not interested in building a true connection. This lack of depth may prevent the relationship from growing and leave you feeling emotionally unfulfilled.
13. Inconsistent stories.
Example: “Last week they said they grew up in the city, but now they’re talking about how much they loved growing up on a farm.”
If someone’s stories frequently change or they struggle to remember details about past experiences, it can be a sign that they’re fabricating or embellishing parts of their life. These inconsistencies could point to dishonesty or manipulation, as they may be trying to create an image of themselves that isn’t real. Pay attention to whether their stories align with what they’ve previously said or if there are glaring contradictions.
12. They’re overly agreeable.
Example: “No matter what I suggest, they always say ‘yes,’ but I’m starting to wonder if they have any opinions of their own.”
While it can feel nice when someone agrees with you, constant agreement could indicate that they are trying too hard to gain your approval or avoid conflict. People who always go along with whatever you say might lack their own sense of self or be hiding their true thoughts and feelings. Disagreements are natural in any healthy relationship, and someone with genuine opinions won’t always mirror yours.
11. They avoid personal questions.
Example: “Whenever I ask about their family or past, they dodge the question or give vague answers.”
Deflecting or avoiding personal questions, especially about their past, can be a major red flag. This type of behavior might suggest that they are hiding something significant, such as past mistakes or unresolved issues. Open communication is essential in building trust, and someone who refuses to share basic details about their life may not be ready for a genuine connection.
10. They’re too quick to commit.
Example: “After just two weeks of dating, they were already talking about moving in together and planning a future.”
If someone pushes for a serious relationship too quickly, it can feel flattering at first but often signals deeper issues. Fast-tracking commitment can be a strategy to secure control or trust before you’ve had the chance to truly know each other. Healthy relationships take time to develop; rushing can prevent you from noticing potential red flags or from establishing a solid foundation based on mutual understanding.
9. Excessive flattery.
Example: “They constantly tell me how amazing I am, but sometimes it feels like they’re just trying to win me over too quickly.”
Compliments are nice, but when someone showers you with praise all the time, it can feel insincere or overwhelming. Excessive flattery is sometimes used to lower your defenses and make you more trusting before they reveal less favorable aspects of their personality. Be cautious if the flattery feels more like a manipulation tactic than genuine admiration, especially if it’s aimed at gaining your trust too quickly.
8. They’re too smooth or polished.
Example: “Everything they say and do seems rehearsed, like they’re performing rather than being real with me.”
Someone who always appears perfect or seems too polished in their behavior may be putting on a facade. While it’s natural to want to make a good first impression, perpetual perfection is unsustainable and often hides flaws or insecurities. Authentic people are willing to show their vulnerable side, make mistakes, and be real, whereas overly smooth individuals may be masking their true selves.
7. Lack of close long-term relationships.
Example: “When I asked about their friends, they mentioned a lot of acquaintances, but no one they’ve known for more than a year.”
If someone doesn’t have any close, long-standing friendships, it may indicate that they struggle with maintaining meaningful relationships. People with a pattern of brief or superficial connections might have trouble being vulnerable, resolving conflicts, or showing empathy. Healthy relationships, both romantic and platonic, are built on trust, respect, and longevity—lack of such relationships could be a red flag.
6. They’re secretive about their life.
Example: “They never tell me where they’ve been or what they’re doing, and their phone is always off limits.”
Secrecy is often a sign of deception or withholding information. If they are vague about their daily activities, background, or who they spend time with, it could mean they’re hiding important aspects of their life from you. Open and transparent communication builds trust, and someone who keeps too much of their life hidden may be protecting a side of themselves they don’t want you to know about.
5. They’re always the victim.
Example: “Every story they tell about past relationships ends with how they were wronged, and never what they might have done wrong.”
When someone consistently portrays themselves as the victim in past relationships or other life situations, it might suggest they have trouble taking responsibility for their actions. While it’s natural to encounter hardships, if they blame everyone else for their problems without acknowledging their own role, it could indicate a pattern of deflection and lack of accountability. Look for balance in their stories, where they own up to their mistakes.
4. They tell unrealistic life stories.
Example: “They claim to have met celebrities and traveled the world, but a lot of the details just don’t add up.”
Stories that seem exaggerated or too good to be true can be a red flag. People who feel the need to embellish their experiences may be insecure about their real selves or trying to craft a more appealing persona. Overly dramatic or fantastical accounts may suggest that they are not being truthful, and it’s important to gauge if their life stories match up with reality.
3. They have had a lot of sudden life changes.
Example: “They’ve switched jobs three times this year and recently moved cities without much explanation.”
While change is a natural part of life, frequent and abrupt shifts—such as changing jobs, moving homes, or cycling through friend groups—can indicate instability. Consistency in personal and professional life often reflects a level of responsibility and commitment. Sudden, unexplained changes could signal that they are running away from unresolved issues or struggling to maintain stability.
2. They’re reluctant to introduce you to others.
Example: “Despite dating for months, they still haven’t introduced me to any of their friends or family.”
If someone is hesitant to introduce you to their family, friends, or colleagues, it could indicate they are hiding you from parts of their life or that they’re not serious about the relationship. Being part of each other’s social circles is a natural progression in a healthy relationship, and reluctance to do so may suggest they have something to hide or aren’t fully committed.
1. They have perfectionist tendencies.
Example: “They expect everything to be flawless, from how the apartment is arranged to how I dress, and it’s starting to feel exhausting.”
Perfectionism can indicate underlying control issues or deep insecurities. If they hold themselves—and you—to impossibly high standards, it can lead to stress, frustration, and disappointment. No one is perfect, and striving for flawlessness can prevent authentic connection. Healthy relationships embrace imperfections and allow both partners to be human without fear of judgment.
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]