Disney's Battle with Florida Governor Takes a Shocking Turn: DEI Programs Abolished"

In a stunning development in the ongoing feud between Walt Disney World and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Disney's governing district, hand-picked by DeSantis, has abolished all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This controversial move, announced in a news release by the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, marks a major setback for efforts to promote equality and inclusivity within the district.

The Fallout: The statement from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District revealed that an internal investigation had uncovered discriminatory hiring and contracting practices within the Reedy Creek Improvement District, prompting the decision to abolish all DEI initiatives. In the district's view, these programs were illegal and contrary to the principles of equality enshrined in American values.

Divisive Measures: Glenton Gilzean, the district administrator, voiced the district's stance, expressing a firm rejection of any attempt to divide people based on race and a commitment to the idea that all individuals are created equal. As a result, the DEI committee will be dissolved, and job duties relating to DEI will be eliminated. Employees will no longer be allowed to dedicate work hours to DEI efforts.

Impact on Businesses: It's important to note that while these changes affect the government aspect of the district, the companies operating within it, including Disney, are not directly affected. However, the move is likely to eliminate previous contracting protocols that provided special consideration to women and minority-owned businesses during procurement processes.

Misuse of Funds: The new oversight district argues that Reedy Creek wasted taxpayer dollars by awarding contracts based on race and gender goals. The previous district allegedly spent millions of dollars in its efforts to meet DEI quotas through its Minority/Women Business Enterprise and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise programs. This revelation further fueled the decision to dismantle DEI initiatives.

 Background: The conflict between Disney and Florida's government escalated when Governor DeSantis gained authority over Reedy Creek in February. The move came nearly a year after Disney's then-CEO Bob Chapek sparked controversy by refraining from commenting on Florida's restrictive legislation regarding sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms. Chapek later issued an apology and vowed to bolster support for advocacy groups and redefine Disney's approach to such issues.

 The battle between Disney and the state of Florida continues to intensify, with legal action being taken by both parties. Disney accuses the state of retaliation for exercising their freedom of speech, while the government board counters with its own lawsuit. As this confrontation unfolds, the fate of DEI programs and Disney's quest for inclusive practices hangs in the balance.