Jan 2, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Florida Gators and Dallas Cowboys former running back Emmitt Smith watches the Sugar Bowl from the sidelines during the first quarter at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
ArticlesPoliticsBy Reice Shipley on

Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith is perhaps one of the most beloves football players of all time, both thanks to his collegiate playing days and of course his uber-successful NFL career. However, Smith did not reciprate the love when it came to an extremely controversial decision that his alma mater recently made.

On Saturday, it was reported by the New York Times that the University of Florida, Smith’s alma mater, had terminated all positions associated with diversity, equity and inclusion (D.E.I.) at the school. This decision came due to a bill signed into law by Florida governor Ron DeSantis that largely banned state universities from spending federal or state money on D.E.I. initiatives.

This is obviously an issue that many have spoken out about, including Smith who took to social media to speak out against his former school.

“I’m utterly disgusted by UF’s decision and the precedent that it sets,” wrote Smith. Without the DEI department, the job falls to the Office of the Provost, who already had their hands full, to raise money for the university and continue 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 pvoen that is not the case. We need diverse thinking and babackgrounds to enhance our Univesity and the DEI department is neccessary to accomplish those goals.

“Instead of showing courage and leadership, we continue to fail based on systemic issues and with this decision, UF has confirmed to the political pressure of today’s time. To the MANY minority athletes at UF, please be aware and vocal about this decision by the University who is now closing the doors on other minorities without any oversight. And to those who think it’s not your problem and stay on the side lines and say nothing, you are complicit in supporting systemic issues.”

It’s a pretty powerful statement from someone like Smith sho has a ton of influence. And many fans were extremely happy to hear him speaking out on this very important issue.

[Emmitt Smith on Twitter/X]

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About Reice Shipley

Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.

View all posts by Reice Shipley