The Florida Board of Governors recently approved a regulation that prohibits public colleges and universities in the state from using state or federal funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This decision has sparked protests and controversy, with critics arguing that it stifles important initiatives and promotes a narrow understanding of history and social sciences.
The vote by the governing body of the State University System of Florida comes several months after Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law banning the use of state or federal funding for diversity programs at public higher education institutions. The board’s decision extends this ban to DEI programs and activities at public universities.
The board also made changes to the core curriculum, replacing the existing course on the principles of sociology with a general American history course called “Introductory Survey to 1877.”[0] They stated that this new course would provide a historically accurate account of America’s founding, including the horrors of slavery and the Reconstruction era.[1]
Critics argue that these changes reflect a misguided understanding of sociology and DEI programs. The American Sociological Association issued a statement saying that the decision is based on a “gross misunderstanding” of sociology as an illegitimate discipline driven by “radical” and “woke” ideology.[2] They emphasize that sociology is a scientific study of social life and behavior, which is essential for civic literacy and a broad range of careers.
The decision to prohibit funding for DEI programs has also raised concerns about the impact on campus centers and resources. The University of North Florida, for example, announced the phase-out of all four diversity centers, including the LGBTQ+, Women’s, Interfaith, and Intercultural Centers, due to the new regulations on prohibited expenditures focusing on DEI.[3] Students and advocates have expressed their disappointment and called for a commitment to creating inclusive and welcoming environments on campus.[3]
Florida’s reputation for enacting anti-LGBTQ laws and limiting diversity initiatives has also come into focus.[4] The state has introduced several anti-LGBTQ bills this year, including measures that would restrict discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools and require individuals to certify their gender markers on official documents.[4] Critics argue that the decision to prohibit funding for DEI programs aligns with this trend and further marginalizes LGBTQ+ communities.[5]
The controversy surrounding the Florida Board of Governors’ decision highlights the ongoing debates about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. Supporters argue that these programs are essential for creating inclusive and equitable learning environments and preparing students for a diverse society. Critics, on the other hand, believe that such programs promote division and are based on “radical” ideologies.
As the debate continues, it is clear that the decision in Florida has sparked significant backlash and raised important questions about the role of diversity and inclusion in education. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact students, faculty, and the overall climate of higher education in the state.
0. “Florida replaces sociology with a “factual” U.S. history survey course” Current, 26 Jan. 2024, https://currentpub.com/2024/01/26/florida-replaces-sociology-with-a-factual-u-s-history-survey-course/
1. “Florida Public Universities Replace Sociology With U.S. History Course In Core Curriculum” HuffPost, 25 Jan. 2024, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/florida-public-universities-core-course-change_n_65b246ece4b074981636ee0b
2. “Sociology Course Requirement Removed in Florida” Daily Signal, 25 Jan. 2024, https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/01/25/florida-university-system-removes-left-wing-sociology-course-from-core-requirements/
3. “University of North Florida announces phase-out of LGBTQ+, Women’s, Interfaith Intercultural Centers” ActionNewsJax.com, 25 Jan. 2024, https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/lgbtq-womens-interfaith-intercultural-centers-unf-could-lose-funding-under-new-regulation/OSIHOC4GZBA3ZMC2VEUIINGXA4/
4. “Florida UNF students protest imminent closing of LGBTQ center” NBC News, 25 Jan. 2024, https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/florida-unf-students-protest-closing-lgbtq-center-rcna135758
5. “Florida’s Board of Governors abolish DEI programs at universities” Los Angeles Blade, 26 Jan. 2024, https://www.losangelesblade.com/2024/01/25/floridas-board-of-governors-abolish-dei-programs-at-universities/
