NAACP vs. FLA, Black student-athletes should avoid Florida colleges after state eliminates DEI programs 

As Black student-athletes of all calibers and talent are considering their college choices, the NAACP has strongly urged them to take their talents to any other state besides Florida. The organization is asking students to reconsider attending any public colleges and universities in Florida due to the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at institutions like the University of Florida.

In 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis enacted a bill that prohibited the utilization of state funds for any Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Consequently, the University of Florida made an announcement on March 1, detailing the closure of the Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, the termination of 13 full-time DEI positions, the removal of 15 administrative appointments, and the cessation of DEI-focused contracts with external vendors.

In a parallel move, other in-state educational institutions like the University of North Florida and Florida International University have also recently terminated their DEI programs. This collective action reflects the statewide impact of the legislative decision, demonstrating a broader trend of dismantling DEI initiatives across Florida’s public university system.

In a letter addressed to NCAA President Charlie Baker, (a former Republican Governor of Massachusetts) and addressed to current and prospective student-athletes, NAACP leaders emphasized that this issue transcends politics and directly impacts the protection and progression of the black community, as well as the educational opportunities and future prospects of student-athletes.

Signed by NAACP National Board of Directors Chairman Leon W. Russell and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson, the letter highlighted the detrimental effects of Florida’s anti-Black policies, particularly the legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis prohibiting state funding for DEI programs. In response to DeSantis’ actions, universities like the University of Florida have dismantled DEI initiatives, leading to the closure of the Office of the Chief Diversity Officer and the elimination of numerous DEI positions.

The NAACP underscored the importance of raising awareness about these issues and taking action against such assaults on diversity and inclusion. They emphasized that collegiate sports often serve as a vital avenue for upward mobility for many Black student-athletes and warned that Florida’s policies threaten their ability to compete in a global economy.

NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, a Florida legend, encouraged minority athletes at his alma mater to remain aware and vocal about the situation. Derrick Johnson reiterated the severity of the issue, stating that if institutions fail to invest in Black athletes, they should consider taking their talents elsewhere. Johnson went beyond Smith and took it a step further saying,  “Florida’s rampant anti-Black policies are a direct threat to the advancement of our young people and their ability to compete in a global economy,” Johnson said in a statement. “Diversity, equity, and inclusion are paramount (to) ensuring equitable and effective educational outcomes. “The value Black and other college athletes bring to large universities is unmatched. If these institutions are unable to completely invest in those athletes, it’s time they take their talents elsewhere.”

This growing campaign could potentially impact the recruiting efforts of schools like Florida and Florida State, especially in the context of name, image, and likeness deals that have become integral to building rosters.