DeSantis’ anti-DEI law is sparking ‘confusion, anxiety and fear’ among Florida faculty

Faculty and staff at public colleges and universities in Florida say they are facing the consequences of a “chilling effect” stemming from a sweeping higher education law defunding diversity programs and restricting race and gender courses.

“It’s a scary time for education,” said Eduardo Padrón, president emeritus of Miami Dade College, who led the institution for almost 25 years. MDC enrolls more students of color than any other U.S. college, including the most Latino students.