University of Florida Sets Precedent For Broad Rollback of DEI, Says Expert

As a backlash against the effects of DEI on morale spreads, the institution’s abolition of DEI programs may influence other organizations.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks about legislation he's proposing to combat homelessness during a press conference in Miami Beach, Fla., on Feb. 5, 2024. Courtesy of the Office of the Florida Governor

The University of Florida’s scrapping of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and initiatives at the beginning of March has fueled a national controversy and led the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to urge prospective students not to attend public universities in the state.

Despite the controversy, DEI programs involving bias training—and the hiring and promotion of minority instructors, executives, and staff—are still big business, not just in the United States but around the world.