A judge in Florida declared today that a state law dubbed the “Stop WOKE Act” restricts race-based discussions in business and education was unconstitutional.
In a 44-page ruling, Tallahassee U.S. District Chief Judge Mark Walker said the so-called “Stop WOKE Act” violates the First Amendment and vague in language. He also declined to issue a stay, which would allow the law to remain in effect if appealed by the state, reported the Associated Press.
The controversial law, pushed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, takes aim at ideology that argues racism is systemic in U.S. institutions.
The judge said it’s applied to diversity, inclusion and bias training in businesses, the “Stop WOKE Act” turns the First Amendment “upside down” because the state is muzzling speech by restricting the certain discussion in training programs, reported the Associated Press.
“If Florida truly believes we live in a post-racial society, then let it make its case. But it cannot win the argument by muzzling its opponents,” wrote Judge Walker.
The preliminary injunction granted by Walker does not apply to the law as it related to Florida schools. A separate federal lawsuit was filed today on behalf of teachers and students who oppose the law.
More about the “Stop WOKE Act” can be found here.
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