SB 266 is a key example of how Gov. DeSantis and his supporters in the legislature have decided that the state has the right to control and compel viewpoints in higher education classrooms across the state. UFF stands opposed to this fundamental attack upon the freedoms of all Floridians, and we call on all organizations—public and private, whether in education or otherwise—to stand with us.
On Wednesday, March 29, the Florida Board of Governors intends to pass Regulation 10.003 – Post-Tenure Faculty Review, against the wishes of the entire higher education community across Florida and the country. A harm to tenure is a harm to all; UFF implores the public to contact the Board of Governors and tell them not to pass Regulation 10.003. The consequences to Florida’s future are clear, and it is time we all demand more of our elected and appointed leaders, now and into the future.
WATCH: The United Faculty of Florida (UFF) and the Florida Education Association (FEA) Virtual Press Conference from Tuesday, March 7, 2023. This event focused on protecting and preserving Florida’s public education system, PreK through graduate school.
Tuesday, March 7th, is the start of Florida’s 2023 Legislative Session, during which Gov. DeSantis has promised to propose bills that will limit the fundamental freedoms of the Florida’s students, teachers, education staff professionals, and higher education faculty. In response, we are asking all Florida Education Association (FEA) and United Faculty of Florida (UFF) members to participate in a statewide “Public Education Day of Action” to show support for educators and the future of education in our state.
The Executive Committee of the United Faculty of Florida-State College of Florida (UFF-SCF) chapter is concerned by the actions of the SCF administration that resulted in the cancellation of the scheduled “Embracing Our Differences” art exhibit on its campus. As educators, we aim to expose students to a world of ideas and for students to develop critical thinking skills and their own opinions.
We stand with, support and defend Florida’s universities and colleges in their efforts to support DEI initiatives and programs, not just because those programs are vital to ensuring broad access to higher education. Real defense of viewpoint diversity means defending the rights of everyone, regardless of their political or ideological beliefs, to live, work, teach and thrive in Florida’s higher education system.
