University of Florida terminates all DEI positions to comply with new law
The University of Florida has terminated all of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related positions in order to comply with a new state law that prohibits state colleges from using state or federal money to fund these programs.
New Law Requires Termination of DEI Positions
The University of Florida announced on Friday that it has terminated all of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related positions. This decision was made in order to comply with a new state law that prohibits state colleges from using state or federal money to fund these programs. The law was implemented by the Florida Board of Education in January and imposes strict regulations on the use of tax dollars to support DEI.
According to the board, DEI programs are defined as "programs that categorize individuals based on race or sex for the purpose of differential or preferential treatment." This law is part of a larger trend in conservative efforts to limit or eliminate diversity programs in education, which they argue promote division and are not essential to academic integrity.
Consequences and Reallocation of Funds
As a result of the new law, the University of Florida has closed its Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, eliminated DEI positions and administrative appoints, and ceased DEI-focused contracts with third-party vendors. The university has stated that employees who lost their positions will receive twelve weeks of severance pay and are encouraged to apply for other positions currently available at the university.
Additionally, the Office of the Chief Financial Officer will reallocate approximately $5 million that was previously used to fund DEI programs to a faculty retirement fund. Despite these changes, the university asserts its commitment to universal human dignity and fostering a community of trust and respect.
Statewide Impact and Governor's Response
The new law will affect 28 state schools in Florida. It follows a law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis last year that banned public colleges from using tax dollars for DEI initiatives. Governor DeSantis celebrated the University of Florida's action in complying with the new law, stating that DEI is toxic and has no place in public universities.
Critics argue that these efforts to eliminate DEI programs are a threat to education and undermine progress towards promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on college campuses. They contend that DEI programs are crucial for creating inclusive learning environments and addressing systemic inequalities.
