The head of one of the most powerful civil rights organizations is urging African American student-athletes to think twice before attending public colleges and universities in Florida.

In a letter, NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson cited the elimination of diversity, equity and inclusion programs already happening at institutions like the University of Florida.

“The value Black and other college athletes bring to large universities is unmatched. If these institutions are unable to completely invest in those athletes, it’s time they take their talents elsewhere,” Johnson said in a statement.

Earlier this month, the University of Florida closed its Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, eliminating 13 full-time DEI positions and 15 administrative appointments. This came after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill called the Stop Woke Act last year, which prohibits the use of state funds for any DEI programs.

Other state colleges and universities like the University of North Florida and Florida International University have also ended their DEI programs.

According to a tally by the Chronicle of Higher Education, 81 anti-DEI bills that target programs at colleges have been introduced in 28 states and in Congress since the start of 2023, and eight have been signed into law across the country.

“This is not about politics. It’s about the protection of our community, the progression of our culture, and most of all, it’s about your education, and your future,” Johnson stated in his letter.

Football Hall of Famer and former University of Florida player, Emmitt Smith took to Twitter to state he is “utterly disgusted” by his alma mater’s actions.

“Instead of showing courage and leadership, we continue to fail based on systemic issues and with this decision, UF has conformed to the political pressures of today’s time. To the many minority athletes at UF, please be aware and vocal about this decision by the university who is now closing the doors on other minorities without any oversight,” Smith wrote.