A Florida college has sparked outrage after hundreds of books, including those related to LGBTQ+ topics, were discarded on campus following the closure of its gender studies program. The books were found outside the now-defunct Gender and Diversity Centre at New College of Florida, leading to widespread criticism from activists and students.
The college administration claimed that the removal of the books, including LGBTQ+ collections like When I Knew, was part of routine maintenance. However, the timing has raised concerns, as the gender studies program had been discontinued, prompting fears that the decision was ideologically driven. The administration defended their actions, stating that the materials were being “weeded” out as they were old, damaged, or no longer necessary for the college’s needs.
Activists and students quickly intervened to save many of the discarded books before they could be destroyed. The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of educational censorship in Florida, particularly under Governor Ron DeSantis’s administration, which has enacted several pieces of legislation targeting LGBTQ+ communities and diversity initiatives.
The controversy surrounding New College of Florida escalated after the appointment of conservative activist Christopher Rufo to the school’s board of trustees. Rufo, a key ally of DeSantis, has been instrumental in reshaping the college’s curriculum, leading to the elimination of programs deemed too progressive. This latest incident has added to the growing tension on campus, as students and faculty continue to push back against what they see as a systematic erasure of diversity and inclusion.
Amy Reid, the former chairperson of the gender studies department, expressed her dismay at the removal of the books. She emphasized the importance of preserving educational materials, particularly those that support marginalized communities. “Books are what matter,” Reid stated, calling for a moment of reflection on the loss of these vital resources.
The dismantling of the gender studies program and the disposal of related books reflect the broader challenges facing educational institutions in Florida, where recent policy shifts have targeted various aspects of diversity and inclusion. The situation at New College of Florida serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle over academic freedom and the rights of marginalized communities in the state.
