In the face of a rising number of anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies across the United States, Black activists, political leaders, and supporters are urging Black student athletes to boycott colleges and universities in states that have promoted or passed such policies. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, since the beginning of 2023, a staggering 81 anti-DEI bills have been introduced in 28 states and in Congress, with eight already signed into law, including in Texas and Florida.

The Florida Board of Governors' decision in January to ban public colleges from using state funding for DEI programs led to sweeping changes at the University of Florida, including the closure of its Chief Diversity Officer's office. In response, the NAACP sent a letter to the President of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Charlie Baker, urging current and prospective Black student athletes to reconsider attending predominantly White institutions in Florida.

The NAACP's letter emphasized the value that Black athletes bring to collegiate sports programs and highlighted the significant financial contributions they make to the multi-billion-dollar industry. It also emphasized the importance of Black educators in the overall student experience. Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, stated that DEI is crucial for ensuring equitable educational outcomes and called on institutions to invest in their athletes or risk losing them to more welcoming states.

Prominent figures like Emmitt Smith, a prominent alumnus of the University of Florida and NFL superstar, expressed their disappointment with their alma mater's decision to close its DEI office. Smith urged minority athletes at UF to be vocal about the university's decision and urged them to consider schools in states that support DEI on college campuses.

Frank Harris, a professor specializing in diversity and equity in higher education at San Diego State University, pointed out the hypocrisy of institutions benefiting from Black talent on the field but failing to invest in their success as students and individuals. He stressed that DEI programs are essential for ensuring that all students feel welcome and supported.

Meanwhile, in Alabama, state lawmakers are considering a bill that would also ban public funding for DEI programs at colleges and state agencies. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin voiced his support for Black parents and athletes considering attending institutions outside of the state that prioritize diversity and inclusion.

Student athletes and their parents have been urged to use their power and consider institutions that actively prioritize fairness and inclusion. As Black athletes have played a pivotal role in establishing high-profile athletic programs at predominantly White institutions, activists argue that it is only fair for these institutions to invest in their success and well-being.

The calls for a boycott highlight the growing concern among activists and supporters of DEI programs about the regressive policies being implemented in various states and the impact they could have on the future educational experiences of Black student athletes.