Staff Reports
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is not backing down in the face of criticism over the state’s curriculum on the history of slavery. The curriculum has come under fire from both sides of the political aisle, with Vice President Kamala Harris and others condemning a particular line that suggests slaves developed skills for their own benefit. However, DeSantis is defending the curriculum, arguing that it highlights the injustice of slavery and the resourcefulness of those who were enslaved.
In an interview with Fox News, DeSantis called out the critics, accusing them of acting in “bad faith.” He emphasized that the passage in question was not suggesting that slavery was a benefit, but rather acknowledging the resourcefulness of enslaved people and their ability to acquire skills despite their circumstances. DeSantis made it clear that he will not let false narratives spread, standing up against politicians like Kamala Harris and the media.
DeSantis on Fox News defends Florida's new slavery curriculum: "People acquired skills in spite of slavery, not because of it, and then they used those when they achieved their freedom." pic.twitter.com/BcxzZ9CQEk
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 2, 2023
Dr. William Allen, one of the scholars who helped write the Florida curriculum, also defended the controversial line. He explained that it was an important addition to the curriculum as it helps teach the stories of black people who persevered under enslavement.
Despite the criticism, DeSantis is standing firm on Florida’s new guidelines. He believes that the scholars who worked on the standards did an excellent job and that their work was not politically motivated. DeSantis urged people to stand up for their state and not side with Kamala Harris on this issue.
(Opinion) It is refreshing to see Governor Ron DeSantis standing up for the truth and not letting false narratives prevail. The critics of the curriculum are clearly misunderstanding its intent and purpose. The curriculum is meant to shed light on the injustices of slavery and highlight the resilience of those who endured it. It is not meant to glorify or justify slavery in any way. It’s unfortunate that politicians like Kamala Harris are jumping to conclusions and fueling unnecessary outrage. We should stand with Governor DeSantis and support the efforts of the scholars who worked on these standards.
