Florida State University (FSU) is currently facing scrutiny over its approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Following an executive order from President Trump, FSU began reviewing its online content, resulting in the removal of various student profiles from its news site.
In an email sent to faculty and staff, FSU President Richard McCullough explained that the university was making changes in response to a four-page order that mandated public institutions to eliminate DEI initiatives. This order required compliance by late February or risk losing funding. Around the same time, profiles highlighting student achievements were taken down as part of what the university described as a website cleanup.
Michelle Evangelista, a recent FSU graduate, discovered that their article was missing when a link led to a “page not found” message. They believed their article was removed because it featured their small business, Empowerment by M.E., which focuses on uplifting underrepresented groups through art.
FSU officials clarified that the deletions were part of routine maintenance and not targeted removals of specific articles. They announced plans to archive all content published before January 1, 2023, to improve user experience and website performance.
The university’s actions come amid increasing pressure from state officials, notably Governor Ron DeSantis, who is focusing on auditing university programs and spending. Earlier this year, DeSantis requested universities to report on their DEI activities, which were previously supported by the Board of Governors.
In McCullough’s message, he underscored the importance of ensuring that the university’s communications align with current federal guidelines. While the university maintains that it complies with the law, it is taking steps to adjust its messaging and policies to secure funding.
Many students and alumni have expressed disappointment. Hannah Fulk, an alumna who advocated for LGBTQ+ rights, voiced her dismay at the removal of her spotlight article, which highlighted her efforts in activism. She noted that depriving others of reading about impactful work is disheartening.
Other alumni have echoed Fulk’s concerns, feeling that the university has turned its back on its students. Rawan Abhari and Kaela Braxton, both recent graduates, shared their frustrations about the lack of communication regarding the removal of their articles. Abhari’s piece discussed important social issues, while Braxton’s highlighted her leadership roles and research projects.
While FSU stated that archived articles can be requested, many former students worry about the broader implications of these changes. They feel that the university is not only distancing itself from the values it once upheld but also silencing voices that contribute to its diversity.
In response to alumni concerns, FSU expressed its pride in featuring student achievements and is open to providing copies of archived articles upon request. This situation raises important questions about the future of DEI initiatives at public universities and their commitment to supporting all students.
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