University doctor boasts about finding loopholes to skirt anti-DEI laws
A university doctor at the University of South Florida has come under scrutiny for his remarks on avoiding anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) laws in Florida, as well as his attacks on state and federal officials, including White House official Stephen Miller. Dr. Haywood Brown, the associate vice president of Academic Affairs at USF, recently gave a presentation at Virginia Commonwealth University where he detailed how he has continued to implement DEI policies despite legal restrictions.
Brown revealed how he changed his job title from vice president for Institutional Equity to focus on “cultural enrichment,” effectively sidestepping the state and federal discrimination laws. He explained how his office rebranded to address healthcare access and culture and enrichment, all while avoiding direct oversight by having a council dedicated to DEI initiatives.
The state of Florida passed a law in 2023 that prohibited colleges and universities from using government funds to support DEI programs or activities. Despite this, Brown emphasized the importance of continuing these initiatives, even if it meant being “slippery” in dealing with legislators and federal directives.
During his presentation, Brown also criticized White House official Stephen Miller, calling him out for his opposition to DEI initiatives. He dismissed Miller as a “Dookie” and questioned his Jewish heritage. Brown also mentioned that the recent Supreme Court ruling on race-conscious admissions would not affect Florida, as such practices have been banned in the state since 1999.
The University of South Florida responded to Brown’s statements by expressing disappointment and stating that they are reviewing the matter. Critics of DEI in healthcare, such as Do No Harm and Consumers’ Research, condemned Brown’s actions, accusing him of prioritizing a “woke agenda” over patient care and advocating for the removal of DEI practices from institutions.
The controversy surrounding Brown’s remarks underscores the ongoing debate over DEI initiatives in academia and healthcare. As universities increasingly prioritize diversity and inclusion, the clash between legal restrictions and institutional practices continues to be a point of contention. Brown’s actions and the subsequent backlash highlight the complex challenges faced by institutions navigating the intersection of policy, ideology, and patient care.
