Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement on the Elimination of DEI Programs at the University of Florida

TAMARAC, FL - The University of Florida’s decision to eliminate DEI Programs jeopardizes the significant progress made in hiring practices and diversity initiatives. Given the University’s receipt of federal funds, there is an urgent need to evaluate its practices and policies for any potential civil rights violations. 

DEI programs play a pivotal role in providing vital pipelines for veterans and women, fostering an environment of respect and equality. This decision will also set women in the state of Florida further back when coupled with extremists’ constant attacks on women’s health and reproductive freedoms. 

It is critical to recognize that DEI programs are not exclusively a matter of racial and ethnic diversity, they are also fundamental to ensuring equitable opportunities, supporting unbiased hiring practices, and developing talent programs for all marginalized groups.  

The negative impact this decision will have on the University cannot be overstated.