Wasserman Schultz Condemns Elimination of University of Florida DEI Staff, Programs

Unfortunately, this action is driven by yet another extreme MAGA law that undermines and assaults underrepresented communities, attacks all our freedoms, and is clearly out of touch with the vast majority of Floridians.

Washington DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), released the following statement in response to the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and staff at the University of Florida:

“As Vice Chair of the Equality Caucus and a proud mother of three University of Florida Gators, I am deeply troubled by my alma mater’s decision to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs to comply with Governor Ron DeSantis’ extreme DEI funding ban.

Unfortunately, this action is driven by yet another extreme MAGA law that undermines and assaults underrepresented communities, attacks all our freedoms, and is clearly out of touch with the vast majority of Floridians. 

Let me be clear: DEI initiatives play a crucial role in uplifting historically persecuted or marginalized communities and providing pathways to success for countless numbers of students in the Florida State University System, including students of color and those who are LGBTQI+. The gap that these programs will leave presents immeasurable harm and danger to those who choose Florida for higher learning.  

I unequivocally stand with the students and DEI staff who have been impacted. Given that these programs and positions may have received federal funding, there must be an urgent investigation of potential civil rights violations from this decision.”