Gov. DeSantis signs bill defunding diversity programs at public colleges

ORLANDO, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill restricting public colleges and universities from spending funds on diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

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The bill, SB 266, will require public colleges and universities to eliminate all majors and minors in critical race theory and gender studies.

The bill also forbids public colleges from offering courses on systemic racism, including classes that “distort historical events” and “teach identity politics,” the Washington Post reported.

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University of Central Florida students, university staff and Florida Democrats have pushed back since the bill was introduced earlier this year. In February, students protested during a UCF Board of Trustees’ meeting.

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Other recent bills signed into law by DeSantis that restrict speech at public schools include the “Stop Woke Act” and the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” law.

DeSantis has changed how public education and curriculum are taught.

“Florida is ranked No. 1 in higher education, and we are committed to keeping it that way,” he tweeted Monday.

State Sen. Geraldine Thompson (D-Orlando) said Monday, “Florida may realize a brain drain as African American students and professors decide the climate they want to function in.”

“The anti-DEI legislation projects an unwelcoming environment.” she said.

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