Emmitt Smith is one of the most prominent student-athletes to ever come through the doors of the University of Florida. The Hall of Fame running back used his platform to speak out after the university fired all of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) department on Friday.
Here’s what Emmitt Smith had to say about the controversial move:
“I’m utterly disgusted by UF’s decision and the precedent that it sets. Without the DEI department, the job falls to the Office of the Provost, who already has their hands full, to raise money for the university and continue to advance the academic studies and athletic programs.
We cannot continue to believe and trust that a team of leaders all made up of the same background will make the right decision when it comes to equality and diversity. History has already proven that is not the case. We need diverse thinking and backgrounds to enhance our University and the DEI department is necessary to accomplish those goals.
Instead of showing courage and leadership, we continue to fail based on systemic issues and with this decision, UF has conformed to the political pressures of today’s time. To the MANY minority athletes at UF, please be aware and vocal about this decision by the University who is now closing the doors on other minorities without any oversight.
And to those who think it’s not your problem and stay on the side lines and say nothing, you are complicit in supporting systemic issues.”
The University of Florida stated its decision was made to “comply with the Florida Board of Governor’s regulation 9.016 on prohibited expenditures.”
The big question is – will more former PWI college athletes speak out when their alma maters move in a similar fashion like Emmitt Smith?