The University of Florida removed all jobs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at the institution following new state requirements. This was confirmed in a statement made public on Friday, March 1.
Almost a year has passed since Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a measure prohibiting public schools and institutions in the state from using federal or state funds for DEI programs.
Announcement From University
Closing the chief diversity officer's position and ending all DEI contracts with outside suppliers were among the terminations announced on Friday by the University of Florida, as reported by The New York Times. Approximately $5 million that had been reported for DEI expenditures will now be put into a faculty recruitment fund.
In an email, a university spokesperson announced the elimination of 13 full-time employees and the administrative appointments of 15 academic members. The institution has announced that the fired workers will get their 12-week salaries back. With the promise of "expedited consideration," it urged people to apply for various jobs at the university.
Disagreements on DEI
Concerns about underrepresentation on campus have led universities throughout the nation to significantly increase diversity initiatives in recent decades. Those who favor DEI programs argue that they are a great approach to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus and assisting students from all walks of life to thrive.
However, in recent years, conservatives' battle against "wokeism" has included DEI initiatives, which have become the epicenter of a cultural war. The programs' detractors claim that they promote left-wing views on gender and race and discriminate against marginalized groups in an attempt to increase the visibility of other groups.
Florida was one of the pioneering states to pass legislation limiting or cutting DEI programs last year.
A number of states governed by Republicans followed suit, notably Texas, which banned DEI programs and offices in publicly financed schools and universities effective January 1. The governor of Utah reduced DEI initiatives at public colleges and state agencies by signing a measure last month. The Alabama legislature is also contemplating measures along these lines.
