In Tallahassee, Florida, a judge has issued a final order on Friday to overturn a law backed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis that aimed to limit discussions on diversity and race in private workplaces. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker had previously declared the law unconstitutional, a decision that was affirmed by an appeals court in March. Judge Walker’s most recent order now solidifies his temporary injunction as permanent.
The law, known as the ‘”Stop WOKE Act,” sought to ban teachings or business practices that suggest individuals of a certain ethnic group are inherently racist and should bear guilt for historical actions done by others. It also prohibited the belief that a person’s level of privilege or oppression is solely determined by their race or gender, or that discrimination is warranted in the pursuit of diversity.
During his unsuccessful presidential campaign, DeSantis frequently mentioned the law, promoting Florida as a place “where woke goes to die.” This legal saga underscores the ongoing debate around the intersection of race, diversity, and workplace conversations in today’s society.
