MBA Career Development without DEI Funding Restrictions – NBC News

Last Updated on January 18, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Florida Bans Funding for DEI Programs in Public Colleges

Word Count: 346

In a controversial move, Florida’s Board of Education has recently enforced a rule that prohibits the use of state and federal funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public colleges. This new regulation specifically targets the 28 schools within the Florida College System, which include institutions such as Seminole State College of Florida, Valencia College, and Florida State College at Jacksonville. These colleges serve significant populations of Black and Latino students.

The board argues that the rule ensures taxpayer funds are no longer utilized to promote DEI on these campuses. State Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. asserts that higher education should reject what he calls “destructive ideologies.” He believes the new ruling will prevent taxpayer money from supporting DEI activities that promote division and indoctrination.

However, civil rights advocate Ben Crump has denounced the board’s decision, describing it as a misguided path towards censorship in Florida. According to Crump, this rule undermines the efforts to address systemic inequalities and foster inclusive environments for minority students.

The funding restriction is not the only action taken by the board. They have also announced the replacement of the course “Principles of Sociology” with a general education American history course. This change is attributed to concerns that the previous curriculum exposed students to radical ideologies.

This ruling comes after Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation in May that imposed similar restrictions in higher education. The legislation prohibits the use of public funds for DEI activism or advocacy and dictates how race and gender can be taught in classrooms. It emphasizes the study of Western civilization while criticizing DEI as being associated with “discrimination, exclusion, and indoctrination.”

As of now, the governor’s office has not provided an official comment on the recent rule implemented by the Board of Education. The move has sparked controversy and raised concerns among those who believe that limiting DEI programs in higher education may hinder progress towards achieving a more equitable society. Critics argue that a diverse and inclusive education is essential for fostering understanding and creating opportunities for all students.