The University of Florida on Friday closed its diversity office and laid off 13 full-time employees as the Sunshine State schools comply with a new state law that prohibits spending on such ideologies.
“The University of Florida has closed the office of the Chief Diversity Officer, eliminated DEI positions and management appointments, and suspended DEI-focused contracts with external vendors.” memo I read what was issued by the university’s president, general counsel, and vice president for human resources.
It added that $5 million earmarked for diversity, equity and inclusion will be reallocated to faculty recruitment efforts.
The announcement comes in light of a 2023 law that prohibits universities from spending state or federal funds on DEI initiatives. The school’s newspaper, Alligator, reported this..
The ordinance was approved in final form by the Florida Board of Governors on January 24, the outlet added.
Employees whose positions have been removed will be paid for 12 weeks and encouraged to apply for other positions at the state university, the statement said.
The memo does not address the future of the Center for Inclusion and Multicultural Engagement, which will receive more than $400,000 in the 2022-2023 UF operating budget, 85% of which will come from the state. Mr. Alligator pointed out that there is.
The center includes officers from LGBTQ+, Black, Asian, and Hispanic student groups. According to the website.
Interviews will be expedited for those looking for a new job at the University within the next three months.
“The University of Florida has been and will continue to be steadfast in its commitment to universal human dignity,” the memo said.
“As we thoughtfully incorporate a wide range of ideas and perspectives to educate our students, we will continue to foster a community of trust and respect for all members of Gator Nation.
Governor Ron DeSantis passed a law banning DEI in state schools. welcomed the announcement at X.
“Florida is where DEI dies,” he wrote.
