Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has demanded all state universities and colleges report on their financial expenditures for critical race theory (CRT), as well as diversity, equity and inclusion programs, according to a memo issued late last month.
Bryan Griffin, press secretary to DeSantis, confirmed the administration’s request on Twitter last week, writing, “All state universities and college systems in Florida have been required to report expenditures and resources utilized for campus activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion and critical race theory. Stay tuned.”
The tweet included an image of the memo, which was delivered to Manny Diaz Jr., Florida Department of Education Commissioner, and Ray Rodriques, State University of Florida Chancellor.
The memo requests a brief description of activities, full and partial FTE positions and total funding spent on the initiatives, as well as the monetary amount of these expenses that are funded by the state.
While proponents of CRT argue it will lead to understanding and appreciation across racial divides, opponents express concern that racial tensions and negative self-image for some students will increase.
The cost of implementing these controversial measures into educational systems has also been debated, with some viewing the expense as necessary to advance American social systems, while others pinpoint the measures as causative to the dramatic increase in the cost of obtaining a higher education.
