Florida DEI leader faces revenue reduction of 50% due to state policies: "We're in a tough spot."

In the years following the "Stop WOKE Act," several diversity, equity, and inclusion consulting companies have faced challenges in Florida.

According to Roni Bennett, the Executive Director of South Florida People of Color, her annual revenue of nearly $300,000 has been cut in half due to Florida's new policies.

"We’re in trouble," Bennett said.

The "Stop WOKE Act" or the "Stop Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees Act," which was enacted in 2022 by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, aimed to prohibit critical race theory from being taught in work and educational programs. Despite a slight increase in demand for her organization's services during the pandemic, Bennett observed that many businesses ceased to request her services.

Bennett mentioned that he noticed changes in some clients' attitudes before the act, indicating that their initial interest was "performative."

"The new president of one client wasn't interested in DEI training," she stated.

Bennett consultants are reminding clients that the "Stop WOKE Act" does not target private businesses, despite national concerns.

"The Stop Woke Act for businesses gained prominence after passing, making businesses fearful of participating in DEI training due to the act. However, since March, it has become clear that this does not apply to businesses."

In March, a federal appeals court determined that the workplace provision of the law conflicted with the First Amendment.

"We cannot concur, and we reject this recent attempt to regulate speech by misrepresenting it as behavior. Florida may be entirely correct about the nature of the ideas it is targeting. Or it may not. Regardless, the value of these views will be determined in the competitive arena of ideas rather than a coded message or a courtroom." Judge Britt C. Grant wrote at the time. "The First Amendment prevents the government from tipping the scales."

Although a federal judge granted a permanent injunction against that portion of the law in July, the portion of the law focused on education remains intact.

Rundlet stated that despite the positive verdict, DEI consultant businesses still face challenges due to the increasing anti-woke culture.

"Rundlet stated that a significant amount of extensive damage has been caused in recent years, and it will take a considerable effort from individuals like Roni Bennett to reverse that harm."

Despite seeking an angel investor, Bennett remains committed to her work.

"It is our responsibility to advance for the sake of future generations," she stated. "My goal is to dismantle systematic racism in America."