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How (and Why) Florida and Texas Governors are Erasing Black History from Schools
By Rose Carlson and Dr. Benjamin M. Drury
Last week Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a bill into law that prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion offices at public colleges in the state. This move follows in the footsteps of Florida, making Texas the second state to enact such a ban. Legislation such as those now limiting the access of racialized and minoritized students to resources that have been empirically shown to demonstrably improve the educational experience for them in Florida now restrict the ability of colleges to create and maintain offices dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion on their campuses. Legislation such as this is a significant setback for fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.
Laws like those now in Texas and Florida prohibit the establishment of diversity, equity, and inclusion offices but also restricts the hiring or contracting of individuals to perform the duties of such offices. It goes further by prohibiting the requirement or solicitation of diversity, equity, and inclusion statements, as well as any preferential treatment based on providing such statements. In Texas specifically, the law prohibits public universities from giving preference in employment or college functions based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. It also restricts the requirement of diversity, equity, and inclusion training. While the law clarifies that academic course instruction, research, creative works, student organization activities, guest speakers, and student recruitment and admissions are exempt, the overall effect is a limitation on efforts to address systemic inequities and promote diversity and inclusion within the higher education system. By curbing these initiatives, the law hampers progress toward creating more inclusive campus environments that support the success and well-being of all students, faculty, and staff.
Furthermore, the law includes a provision for periodic audits by the state auditor to ensure compliance. Colleges found to be non-compliant risk losing funding if they do not rectify the violation within 180 days of the determination. This threat of financial penalties further adds to the potential chilling effect on institutions that seek to prioritize…
