The history of African Americans is expansive and varied, stretching from the political conflicts that led to the development of slavery to the modern-day contributions of Americans of the African diaspora to society. From the civil rights movement to influential artists, athletes, and activists, African Americans have made lasting and impactful contributions to the history of the United States.
Recently, the debate over gas stoves has become a hot-button issue.[0] The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced that it will consider regulations on indoor air pollution from gas stoves, and a study has asserted that gas-burning stoves are responsible for roughly 12.7 percent of childhood asthma cases nationwide.[1] This has caused a political outcry, with some, including Florida Republican Representative Matt Gaetz, arguing that the government is coming for their gas stoves.[1]
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has further weighed in with his proposed Fiscal 2023-2024 Framework for Freedom Budget, which includes high-priority conservation items such as 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] He also proposed cutting taxes by $2 billion to provide relief to Florida families.[3]
More recently, Governor DeSantis has suggested changing the law so that death penalties in Florida no longer require a unanimous jury.[4] This has raised questions about his understanding of black history and the black experience.[5] Additionally, he has pushed for a ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, including critical race theory, at Florida colleges.[6]
Finally, Disney has released a statement regarding the Reedy Creek Improvement District, noting that regardless of the outcome, they remain committed to providing the highest quality experience for the millions of guests who visit each year.[7]
Overall, the history of African Americans and the current political and economic climate in Florida shows the complexity and breadth of issues that are at stake in the state. From gas stoves to diversity initiatives to Disney’s presence, the state is facing a range of important issues, and the decisions made now will shape the future of Florida.
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. “Ron DeSantis wants to end unanimous jury for death penalty, thus …” boingboing.net, 23 Feb. 2023, https://boingboing.net/2023/01/24/ron-desantis-wants-to-end-unanimous-jury-for-death-penalty-thus-more-executions-video.html
5. “NBC Won’t Correct, Comment on Ron DeSantis Slavery Lie – OutKick” www.outkick.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.outkick.com/nbc-wont-correct-comment-on-ron-desantis-slavery-lie/
6. “New College students, faculty protest Gov. DeSantis’ changes to …” www.abcactionnews.com, 23 Feb. 2023, https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-sarasota-manatee/new-college-of-florida-students-faculty-and-alumni-protests-gov-desantis-changes-to-campus
7. “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/
