Gainesville, Florida – The NAACP is calling on Black student-athletes to take a stand against Florida universities following the University of Florida’s decision to eliminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion positions on campus.
The move by the university comes in response to a new state policy that forbids the use of government funds for equity and inclusion programs at public and state institutions.
In a letter sent out on Monday, NAACP leaders emphasized that the issue goes beyond politics and speaks to the protection and progression of the Black community, culture, education, and future opportunities.
The NAACP further highlighted the importance of advocating for the rights and support of Black students within educational settings, stressing that Florida’s revised DEI stance is part of a broader trend of anti-Black policies spearheaded by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis.
According to NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson, the actions taken by Florida pose a direct threat to the advancement and success of young Black individuals in a competitive global economy.
The organization urged Black student-athletes to consider seeking opportunities at institutions that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing the value that these students bring to universities that benefit financially from their contributions.
The decision by the University of Florida, along with other prominent Florida universities like Florida State University and the University of South Florida, has garnered attention and criticism from various parties, including alumni such as NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith.
NAACP Education Fellow Ashley L. White underscored the critical role that Black individuals play in driving cultural growth and prosperity, particularly within educational institutions. White highlighted the need for colleges to invest in the education of all Black students and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion as crucial components of excellence.
While recognizing the challenges that sports scholarships may pose for some Black student-athletes considering participation in a potential boycott, the NAACP stressed the importance of holding institutions accountable for fully supporting Black futures through genuine commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In conclusion, the NAACP emphasized that the responsibility for creating a supportive educational environment for all students lies not only with institutions like the University of Florida but also with the broader community to demand and uphold standards of equity and inclusion.