ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A bill that would ban colleges and universities in Florida from using funds to promote diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives is one step closer to becoming a law.
Gov. Ron DeSantis says DEI initiatives and the teaching of critical race theory are being used to push a political agenda.
“It’s using the administrative apparatus of the university to impose an ideological agenda," DeSantis said in a round table discussion Monday.
One concern that has been voiced online is that the proposed law would shut down Black and multicultural student-led organizations, like sororities or fraternities. The bill’s author, Rep. Alex Andrade, says that's not the case.
"How does this impact Black sororities and fraternities and their ability to host social justice events, voter registration events, teach social justice to each other's peers?" asked Rep. Yvonne Hinson.
Those at the discussion said agreed with Hinson that the bill does not impact Black and multicultural student-led organizations.
In its current form, the bill, HB 999, would ban certain courses on gender studies and race. Some in higher education contend that DEI courses are an invaluable learning tool.
"In a country where race has so influenced the way we developed, it is important to understand how to develop," Rik Stevenson, professor at the University of Florida, said.
DeSantis and his supporters say DEI initiatives are being used to push only one ideology.
"DEI is nothing more than viewing everything through the lens of race and LGBTQ," Darryl Boyer, a law student at Florida State University, said.
Under this proposed law, certain majors like women’s studies and anything involving critical race theory would be eliminated as well. It now goes to the State Senate for approval.