Former Florida and Dallas Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith blasted his alma mater in a statement Sunday in response to the university’s controversial firing of its entire Diversity, Equity and Inclusion department Friday.
“I am utterly disgusted by UF’s decision and the precedent that it sets,” Smith wrote on social media. “Without the DEI department, the job falls to the Office of the Provost, who already has their hands full, to raise money for the university and continue to advance the academic studies and athletic programs. We cannot continue to believe and trust that a team of leaders all made up of the same background will make the right decision when it comes to equality and diversity. History has already proven that is not the case.
“Instead of showing courage and leadership, we continue to fail based on systemic issues and with this decision, UF has conformed to the political pressures of today’s time,” he continued.
