Current:Home > InvestNAACP urges student-athletes to reconsider Florida colleges after state eliminates DEI programs-DB Wealth Institute B2 Expert Reviews
NAACP urges student-athletes to reconsider Florida colleges after state eliminates DEI programs
View Date:2024-12-24 00:32:49
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Black student-athletes should reconsider attending public colleges and universities in Florida, the NAACP said in a letter to NCAA President Charlie Baker on Monday.
The letter was in response to the University of Florida and other state schools that have eliminated their diversity, equity and inclusion programs. It was also addressed to current and prospective student-athletes.
“This is not about politics,” the letter read. “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.”
The letter was signed by NAACP National Board of Directors Chairman Leon W. Russell and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson.
Last year, Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill prohibiting the use of state funds for any DEI programs. The University of Florida responded in March by closing the Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, eliminating 13 full-time DEI positions and 15 administrative appointments, and ending DEI-focused contracts with outside vendors.
Other state schools like North Florida and Florida International also have shut down DEI programs.
“While it is our duty to spread awareness and encourage action around these egregious assaults, we also recognize that protest can come at a price,” the letter read. “The sad reality is, for many Black student-athletes, collegiate sports may be their sole opportunity at achieving the upward mobility necessary to propel them into their rightful places in society.”
It’s unclear how awareness of the debate over DEI might affect current or prospective student-athletes who are considering powerhouses like Florida and Florida State — especially at a time when name, image and likeness deals have become so integral to building rosters — but a growing campaign could hinder those schools’ recruiting efforts.
NFL Hall of Famer and Florida legend Emmitt Smith asked minority athletes at his alma mater to “be aware and vocal” about the decision.
Johnson took it a step further Monday.
“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.”
___
AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports
veryGood! (19525)
Related
- Manhattan rooftop fire sends plumes of dark smoke into skyline
- Former Tennessee officer accused in Tyre Nichols’ death to change plea ahead of trial
- Delaware State travel issues, explained: What to know about situation, game and more
- NTSB sends team to investigate California crash and lithium-ion battery fire involving a Tesla Semi
- ONA Community Introduce
- Isabella Strahan Reacts to Comment About Hair Growth Amid Cancer Journey
- Joey Lawrence Accused of Cheating on Wife Samantha Cope With Actress Melina Alves in Divorce Docs
- Jury sides with Pennsylvania teacher in suit against district over Jan. 6 rally
- Steelers shoot for the moon ball, but will offense hold up or wilt in brutal final stretch?
- Bachelor Nation's Tia Booth Is Pregnant, Expecting Baby No. 2 With Taylor Mock
Ranking
- Halle Berry surprises crowd in iconic 2002 Elie Saab gown from her historic Oscar win
- FDA approves updated COVID-19 vaccines, shots should be available in days
- NTSB sends team to investigate California crash and lithium-ion battery fire involving a Tesla Semi
- Chris Olsen, nude photos and when gay men tear each other down
- Police identify 7-year-old child killed in North Carolina weekend shooting
- Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz to serve one-game suspension for recruiting violation
- Ex-Congressional candidate and FTX executive’s romantic partner indicted on campaign finance charges
- Taylor Swift, her ex Taylor Lautner and an unlikely, eye-catching friendship
Recommendation
-
Father sought in Amber Alert killed by officer, daughter unharmed after police chase in Ohio
-
FDA approves updated COVID-19 vaccines, shots should be available in days
-
See what Detroit Lions star Aidan Hutchinson does when he spots a boy wearing his jersey
-
Nine MLB contenders most crushed by injuries with pennant race heating up
-
Nicky Hilton Shares Her Christmas Plans With Paris, the Secret To Perfect Skin & More Holiday Gift Picks
-
Doctor charged in death of Matthew Perry is returning to work this week, attorney says
-
Convicted drug dealer whose sentence was commuted by Trump charged with domestic violence
-
Sabrina Carpenter Walks in on Jenna Ortega Showering in “Taste” Teaser