University Official Reveals Strategies to Circumvent Anti-DEI Laws in Florida

FIRST ON FOX: A university doctor recently shared his methods for navigating anti-diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) laws in Florida while voicing criticism of state and federal officials, notably Stephen Miller from the White House.

Dr. Haywood Brown, currently the associate vice president of Academic Affairs at the University of South Florida, outlined his approach during a recent presentation at Virginia Commonwealth University. There, he elaborated on how he continues to implement DEI policies while skirting legal limitations imposed by both state and federal legislation—including a recent Supreme Court ruling that prevents colleges from factoring race into admissions decisions.

In a video clip reviewed by Fox News Digital, Dr. Brown expressed his concern regarding what he described as the threat to medical education and health equity posed by the anti-woke movement. He stated, “I really want to discuss the threat of the anti-woke movement to medical education and training and health equity.”

In his presentation, Brown emphasized that despite the change in his official title, the substance of his work remains unchanged. “Even though I eliminated my title, I didn’t eliminate my job,” he explained. He previously held the position of vice president for Institutional Equity at USF, suggesting that external labels do little to affect practical responsibilities.

Rebranding DEI Initiatives

Brown detailed efforts at USF to rebrand the DEI office to focus on what he termed “cultural enrichment.” He remarked, “As long as it works? That’s what we do.” The rebranding was framed as a method to maintain operation of DEI initiatives without using the associated terminology.

During his presentation, he stated, “So we changed our name to healthcare access. Who could argue against that? How do you get healthcare excellence? You only get healthcare equity if you have a workforce that can meet those needs.” This change involved not just a shift in nomenclature but also formal recognition by the Faculty Council and task forces, allowing the institution to address issues related to culture and environment without explicitly retaining a dedicated individual for DEI initiatives.

Brown added, “Isn’t that slippery? As long as it works. That’s what we do,” indicating a clear intention to operate around the constraints placed by the new legislation.

Legislative Context and Challenges

In 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis enacted legislation that prevents colleges and universities from utilizing government funds to promote, support, or maintain DEI initiatives or related campus activities. DEI, as defined by the State University System of Florida, includes programs that classify individuals based on various identity markers and that encourage differential treatment based on these classifications.

In the video, Brown maintained that individuals within the health sector often better understand their needs than legislators, expressing his belief that some directives from “the big house” should be disregarded. He highlighted the necessity of being adaptable and indistinct in discussions with lawmakers.

Criticism and Reactions

Dr. Brown did not shy away from criticizing Stephen Miller, who has been vocally opposed to DEI initiatives. He asserted, “Well, Stephen Miller has already tried to attack the University of South Florida. He’s a Dookie [Duke University alum]. We don’t claim him. He’s also claimed to be Jewish, but we’ll see.”

Following the Supreme Court ruling, Brown clarified that Florida’s stance on admissions has been unchanged since 1999, as the state has prohibited race-conscious admissions for decades.

Additionally, he recounted interactions on Capitol Hill, suggesting that effective advocacy often requires an elusive approach in communication with legislators to achieve desired outcomes.

University Response and Broader Implications

A statement from the University of South Florida indicated that it is currently reviewing the matter. A university spokesperson commented, “The University of South Florida is disappointed and troubled by the statements of Dr. Haywood Brown, who is set to retire from USF on July 1. The university follows all state and federal guidance, policies and laws, and any suggestion otherwise by Dr. Brown is untrue. USF is reviewing this matter.”

The revelations have drawn significant criticism from groups that oppose DEI in healthcare settings. Kristina Rasmussen, executive director of Do No Harm, remarked, “Woke DEI ideology is invasive at our university medical schools. The speech by former USF vice president for Institutional Equity Dr. Haywood Brown at Virginia Commonwealth University Health should raise alarm bells for state legislators, governors, and attorneys general concerned about the state of medicine. Do No Harm will continue to work to expose administrators harming our healthcare system, and we will not stop until this woke DEI ideology is fully eradicated.”

Will Hild, executive director of Consumers’ Research, also critiqued the situation, stating, “This is just another example of how health systems across the country are intentionally prioritizing a woke agenda over patient care. The Trump Administration has made it clear that woke ideology such as DEI is illegal and must be removed from our institutions. Organizations like VCU think they can pull the wool over Americans’ eyes by allowing speakers like Dr. Haywood Brown, who strategizes on how to break the law and continue DEI practices covertly.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Dr. Brown for comment but did not receive a response.

Implications for Future Educational Policies

The actions and statements from Dr. Brown highlight a growing tension within the educational and health sectors concerning DEI policies amid shifting legal frameworks. As institutions grapple with the implications of recent laws, these developments warrant close attention from policymakers, educational leaders, and communities concerned about the future of diversity and inclusion in academic environments.