The history of African Americans is a long and complex one, spanning from the pre-colonial period to the present day. It includes the history of African peoples before the political conflicts that led to the development of slavery, and the history and contributions of Americans of the African diaspora to society. This history is one of resilience and adaptation in the face of tremendous adversity.
In recent weeks, the debate over gas stoves has been at the forefront of the news cycle.[0] The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced that it would consider regulations on indoor air pollution from gas stoves, while a study has asserted that gas-burning stoves are responsible for roughly 12.7 percent of childhood asthma cases nationwide.[1] This has sparked a debate about the efficacy of regulations and the right of individuals to make their own decisions about what appliances they use in their homes.
Governor Ron DeSantis has also been in the spotlight regarding his proposed Fiscal 2023-2024 “Framework for Freedom Budget” which includes high-priority conservation items including eradication and control of pythons and other nonnative fish and wildlife species, enhanced protections for Florida’s manatees and sea turtles, statewide seagrass restoration support, and support for law enforcement.[2] This budget suggests a $2 billion reduction in taxes in order to offer assistance to families in Florida.[3]
In addition, Governor DeSantis has been criticized for his proposal to ban diversity, equity and inclusion programs, including critical race theory, at Florida colleges.[4] He also called for a change to the law so that death penalties in Florida no longer require a unanimous jury, raising questions about his views on black history and the black experience.
Finally, Disney has made its first public comments this year about the Reedy Creek Improvement District, noting that they will remain committed to providing the highest quality experience for visitors no matter the outcome of the proposed legislation.[5]
The history of African Americans has been a long and tumultuous one, and the current debates over gas stoves, conservation efforts, and diversity initiatives reflect the ever-changing nature of the conversation. It will be interesting to see how these debates continue to shape the future of the African American experience in the coming years.
0. “Ron DeSantis pushes permanent Florida sales-tax exemption for …” www.morningstar.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.morningstar.com/news/marketwatch/202302011202/ron-desantis-pushes-permanent-florida-sales-tax-exemption-for-gas-stoves
1. “The Fiery Gas Stove Wars | The New Republic” newrepublic.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://newrepublic.com/article/170246/fiery-gas-stove-wars
2. “FWC: Governor Ron DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget …” www.midfloridanewspapers.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.midfloridanewspapers.com/polk_news_sun/fwc-governor-ron-desantis-framework-for-freedom-budget-promotes-natural-resource-restoration-initiatives-and-supports/article_9a37a7f8-aed1-11ed-87eb-abdaed5e19d2.html
3. “”The Framework for Freedom,” Governor Ron DeSantis’ State …” gunster.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://gunster.com/alerts/the-framework-for-freedom-governor-ron-desantis-state-budget-recommendation-for-the-2023-2024-fiscal-year/
4. “Trust & Verify: Gov. Ron DeSantis takes steps to ban diversity, equity …” www.winknews.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.winknews.com/2023/02/02/trust-verify-gov-ron-desantis-takes-steps-to-ban-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-programs-at-florida-colleges/
5. “Ron DeSantis would pick Disney World district board under new bill …” www.themeparktribune.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.themeparktribune.com/ron-desantis-would-pick-disney-world-district-board-under-new-bill/
