Aiexpress – Florida’s Board of Governors made the decision on Wednesday to prohibit state funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in all public universities in the state. This action is part of a growing trend targeting DEI spending in higher education in the United States.
The decision has impacted several universities in Florida, including the University of Florida, Florida State University, and Florida International University. This move follows the approval of similar rules by Florida’s Board of Education, which aim to restrict public funding in public colleges.
Wednesday’s vote has brought public universities in line with legislation signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in May 2023. This legislation aims to defund DEI programs at state universities and colleges.
The 17-member board, governing the State University System of Florida, has decided that state and federal funds cannot be utilized by a state university for the purpose of endorsing, endorsing, or sustaining programs or campus activities that “advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion” or “promote or participate in political or social activism.”
As DEI programs in universities face increased scrutiny nationwide, the Florida board’s decision holds significance.
In recent months, several state legislatures have taken steps to limit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education institutions. These lawmakers argue that these programs consume significant financial resources without yielding substantial results. As an example, the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents recently made the decision to reduce its diversity initiatives in order to secure state funding, following an agreement with Republican lawmakers.
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt recently took action by signing an executive order that defunds DEI offices and programs in public colleges. This decision reflects the governor’s stance on the matter.
Conservative lawmakers have long criticized DEI initiatives in colleges and universities, claiming that they promote indoctrination. However, scholars argue that these policies and programs play a crucial role in addressing inequality by promoting multiculturalism and offering resources for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
According to Florida’s Board of Governors, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) is defined as any program, campus activity, or policy that categorizes individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation, and promotes differential or preferential treatment based on these classifications.
The board made the decision to replace the core course “Principles of Sociology” with a more comprehensive American History course called “Introductory Survey to 1877.”
