How Political Pressures Are Reshaping Florida’s University Campuses

Over the past three years, since Governor Ron DeSantis launched efforts to eliminate 'woke' ideology from Florida's universities, my campus has undergone dramatic changes. Faculty members now hesitate to express certain ideas or teach particular topics. Some have begun avoiding terms such as 'racism.' A student recently shared that when the word 'intersectional' was mentioned in class, the instructor discouraged its use.

This scenario may soon become common across colleges nationwide. Accounts abound of prestigious institutions retreating in response to the former president's campaign against higher education. From firsthand experience, the situation could deteriorate even further.

The former president has closely observed Florida's developments. The educational reforms under Project 2025 cite Florida as a model for transforming universities. Already, he has threatened to withhold funding from institutions that fail to eliminate language deemed 'woke' and has called for increased oversight of certain academic departments. Potential next steps include banning political or social activism on campuses, as Florida has done, and weakening tenure protections and faculty union influence. Having witnessed these changes firsthand, I understand the profound impact they have had. This experience may foreshadow what other universities could face if similar policies are implemented nationally.

Prior to these interventions, faculty members in Florida enjoyed strong administrative support for their professional autonomy in teaching. Open, nuanced discussions were possible without fear of professional repercussions. For example, in one class discussion, female students openly shared their feelings about catcalling, prompting thoughtful reflections from male students about their own behavior—creating a valuable learning experience for all. Today, such conversations risk violating state laws that prohibit teaching male students to feel guilt for actions committed by others.

Since the crackdown began, I have seen colleagues subjected to harassment and investigations over engaging with current social issues, even outside the classroom setting. This pervasive atmosphere of fear achieves exactly what the government desires. Both administrators and faculty preemptively self-censor to avoid any association with 'wokeness,' suppressing the open, respectful dialogue necessary for students to form independent opinions.

One professor confided that he stopped assigning readings on lynching and white evangelicalism out of concern that those topics might trigger scrutiny. Another shared that she now moderates her language not only during class and on campus but also in her personal social media activity.