On January 31, 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida announced his intention to ban diversity, equity and inclusion programs, including critical race theory, from the state’s colleges and universities.[0] This move has been met with widespread criticism, especially from the African American community, who feel that this decision is yet another example of DeSantis’ lack of understanding of their history and the struggles they face.
The Governor has also recently been in the news for his comments on the death penalty, suggesting that the law should be changed so that only 8 out of 12 jurors would have to agree instead of requiring a unanimous decision.[1]
At the same time, DeSantis is pushing for a change in the law regarding the Reedy Creek Improvement District, a Disney-controlled area. Disney has yet to make an official statement on the issue, though Walt Disney World Resort president Jeff Vahle released a statement saying that the company remains committed to providing a high-quality experience for their guests, regardless of the outcome of the legislation.
It remains to be seen what effect these decisions will have on the African American community in Florida, as well as the rest of the country. But one thing is certain: the fight for equality and justice is far from over.
0. “New College students, faculty protest Gov. DeSantis’ changes to …” www.abcactionnews.com, 22 Feb. 2023, https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-sarasota-manatee/new-college-of-florida-students-faculty-and-alumni-protests-gov-desantis-changes-to-campus
1. “Ron DeSantis wants to end unanimous jury for death penalty, thus …” boingboing.net, 22 Feb. 2023, https://boingboing.net/2023/01/24/ron-desantis-wants-to-end-unanimous-jury-for-death-penalty-thus-more-executions-video.html
