The US Department of Education has seriously investigated New College of Florida following allegations of discrimination, specifically targeting individuals with disabilities. This complaint has been a cause for concern and has prompted the federal education authorities to dig deeper.
Allegations of Disability Discrimination
The US Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights has set its sights on the New College of Florida, accusing them of exclusion and denying benefits to individuals based on disability.
Second-Class Citizens
Attorney David Kutch, representing the Office of Civil Rights, said that the college’s “communications with applicants, participants, members of the public, and companions with disabilities” were not as effective as others.
Excluding Disabled People From Aids and Services
The agency is rigorously examining whether the college systematically excluded persons with disabilities from full participation, assessing programs, activities, aids, benefits, and services for any discriminatory practices.
Shrouded Details of the Complaint
The exact details of the disability discrimination complaint remain veiled in secrecy, with the Department of Education maintaining a tight-lipped approach.
The LGBTQ+ Discrimination Complaints
Adding fuel to the fire, a separate complaint alleging discrimination against LGBTQ+ students has been lodged against the college.
Hostility Towards LGBTQ+ Community
The college is being accused of “overly hostile” acts “on the basis of race, gender, religion, and disability,”
This new report could see hefty punishment against the Florida college.
College Denies Wrongdoing
A New College of Florida spokesperson denied the claims of discrimination by gender, religion and race, “The anonymous complaint details many false claims meant to grab headlines.”
Disability Case Being Investigated
He then admitted the discrimination case against disability hasn’t been denied, “the only claim that is being looked into is the disability compliance claim, of which we are confident the DOE will also find to be without merit,” the spokesperson argued.
College Undergoes Transformation
New College of Florida has witnessed significant transformation triggered by conservative influences and changes within the board of trustees, led by one prominent and controversial figure.
DeSantis Sending Schools Downhill
The alteration, spearheaded by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, has caused ripple effects within the college structure.
Abolishing Gender Program
The college abolished crucial offices, such as the Office of Outreach and Inclusive Excellence, showing a lack of commitment to fighting against discrimination.
Dismantling of Gender Studies Program
Further controversies arose as the board of trustees voted to begin dismantling the gender studies program, fueling debates about inclusivity and academic offerings at the college.
The post DeSantis’ College Reform in Florida Triggers Federal Investigation Over Discrimination Claims first appeared on Pulse of Pride.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Life Matters. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.