Senator Osgood’s Response to the University of Florida Eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Offices

Submitted by Senator Rosalind Osgood

    TALLAHASSEE, FL – On Friday, March 1st, 2024, the University of Florida fired thirteen full-time diversity, equity, and inclusion officers in addition to 15 administration appointments. This change within the University of Florida complies with a new Florida statute that was passed in the 2023 Session. The bill that initiated the University’s restructuring, SB 266 – Higher Education, prohibits universities from spending state or federal funds on DEI initiatives. In response to this news, Florida State Senator Rosalind Osgood (D-Broward County) issued the following statement Monday:

     “Sixty-seven years ago, the University of Florida was integrated. In 2021 a marker was placed at the school to celebrate integration. The marker honors the efforts of Virgil Hawkins, George Starke, W. George Allen, and Stephan Mickle.

     Yet, as we celebrate the marker and all it represents, the recent closure of the DEI department at the University of Florida reminds us that the demand for diversity, equity, and inclusion must continue. The removal of DEI officers from the university not only undermines the pursuit of a well-rounded education but also restricts truthful and inclusive learning environments. Such actions prioritize shortsighted policies over the essential principles of academic enrichment and societal progress. By neglecting the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, we not only risk the exchange of ideas crucial for fostering understanding and progress within our universities, but we also jeopardize the significant strides we have already made, and we have come too far to turn around now!”

About Senator Osgood

A proud Broward County native and Fort Lauderdale High School graduate, Dr. Osgood serves as a member of the Florida State Senate, representing District 32. To date, Dr. Osgood has over 22 years of background in non-profit management, where she has served as CEO of the Mount Olive Development Corporation (MODCO), Associate Minister at New Mount Olive Baptist Church, Former Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University Huizenga School of Business, and member of the Broward County School Board’s District 5 representative where she served as Chair twice, her leadership advances to the Boards of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Fort Lauderdale Chapter of the Links, Inc., and the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition Board. Her motto remains, “Overcome Obstacles by Optimizing Opportunities.”