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Andrea Adelson, ESPN Senior Writer
The NAACP asked Black student-athletes to reconsider their decisions to attend public colleges and universities in the state of Florida, in response to the University of Florida and other state schools recently eliminating their diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
In a letter sent to NCAA president Charlie Baker and addressed to current and prospective student-athletes Monday, NAACP president and CEO Derrick Johnson wrote, “This is not about politics. It’s about the protection of our community, the progression of our culture, and most of all, it’s about your education, and your future.”
Last year, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that prohibits the use of state funds for any DEI programs. As a result, the University of Florida announced on March 1 it had closed the Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, eliminated 13 full-time DEI positions and 15 administrative appointments, and halted DEI-focused contracts with outside vendors.
Other in-state schools, such as North Florida and Florida International, have also recently shuttered DEI programs.
NFL Hall of Famer and Florida great Emmitt Smith also spoke out, voicing his disgust at UF’s decision and asking minority athletes at UF to “be aware and vocal” about the decision.
In a statement, Johnson said, “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.”