In response to the University of Florida's decision to terminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion positions on campus, the NAACP is calling on Black student-athletes to boycott Florida universities. This move comes after a new state policy prohibits public and state institutions from using government funds on equity and inclusion programs.

In a letter sent on Monday, the NAACP stated that this issue goes beyond politics; it is about protecting the community, advancing the culture, and prioritizing education and the future of Black student-athletes. Emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and advocating for the rights and support of Black students within educational environments, the letter was signed by Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, and Leon W. Russell, chair of the NAACP's national board of directors.

The NAACP firmly believes that Florida's new stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion follows a series of anti-Black policies implemented by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. They argue that DeSantis has not concealed his administration's devaluation of Black America and is now waging a war on the Black community.

According to the NAACP, Florida's anti-Black policies pose a direct threat to the advancement of young people and their ability to compete in the global economy. They highlight the invaluable contributions that Black college athletes bring to universities, stating that if these institutions cannot fully invest in these athletes, it is time for them to take their talents elsewhere.

The University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of South Florida house some of the most prominent football and basketball programs in the country, generating over $177 million in revenue between July 2021 and June 2022, according to the Department of Education.

However, Florida is not the only Republican-led state pushing back on initiatives like diversity, equity, and inclusion. An analysis by NBC News reveals that GOP lawmakers across more than 30 states have introduced or passed over 100 bills aimed at restricting or regulating such efforts this legislative season, including targeting schools. Last year, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a law requiring state-funded colleges to close their DEI offices.

While these efforts to limit diversity, equity, and inclusion programs have raised concerns about their impact on students, some state leaders have expressed support for prioritizing diversity and inclusion. In February, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin stated that if his state blocked funding for DEI in public colleges, he would encourage student-athletes to explore institutions outside of Alabama that prioritize diversity and inclusion.

The University of Florida's decision to terminate equity and inclusion positions has faced swift criticism, including from alumni. NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith expressed his deep disappointment on social media, stating that he was "utterly disgusted" by his alma mater and the precedent it set.

The NAACP emphasizes that Black America drives the growth and prosperity of American culture, particularly within educational institutions. They argue that colleges seeking to benefit from Black talent must invest in the education of all Black students without hesitation. Promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and access across colleges and universities is crucial for cultivating excellence, according to Ashley L. White, education fellow at the NAACP.

Acknowledging that sports scholarships may prevent some from participating in the boycott, the NAACP recognizes that for some Black student-athletes, joining a college team may be their only path to upward mobility. The letter highlights the imbalance of power and profit between these institutions and the individuals they fail to support in matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The NAACP asserts that if institutions want to reap the benefits of Black talent, they must fully invest in Black futures.

The burden of change does not solely rest on Black students; the NAACP contends that the University of Florida and other public institutions should seize the opportunity to become leaders in fostering a supportive educational environment for all students. Until that happens, it is up to individuals and the broader community to hold these institutions accountable, the NAACP concluded.