Addressing Concerns: Governor Ron DeSantis’ Policies and Their Impact on the Florida African American Community
An Examination of Discriminatory Laws and Policies in Florida and Their Impact on African Americans, People of Color, and the LGBTQ+ Community
Recently, concerns have been raised regarding treating specific communities in Florida. There have been allegations of discriminatory policies being implemented by Governor Ron DeSantis, adversely impacting African Americans, racial minorities, and the LGBTQ+ community. That has resulted in national civil rights groups like the NAACP issuing travel advisories discouraging people from visiting the state due to these policies. As a result of these issues, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the oldest historically Black collegiate fraternity in the U.S., has decided to relocate its 2025 convention from Orlando. This decision was made in response to the concerns raised about the impact of Florida’s policies on marginalized communities. This essay will explore the reasons behind the fraternity’s decision and analyze the discriminatory laws and policies that led to this action.
Florida has faced significant backlash for its recent laws and policies, which have been widely denounced for their discriminatory nature. Among these, Florida’s newly implemented education standards have ignited intense controversy. These standards mandate middle school educators to teach that enslaved people possessed abilities that “could serve their self-interest.” Such an approach has been widely criticized for distorting history, as it neglects the horrific experiences endured by enslaved people and the lasting effects on African Americans. Moreover, Florida has imposed voting restrictions disproportionately affecting African Americans and individuals from diverse racial backgrounds. These voter suppression tactics have faced criticism.
In recent years, various laws and policies have been enacted in Florida that have been criticized for their potential to suppress the voices of marginalized communities. Some of these laws have been seen as discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community, such as banning transgender women and girls from participating in school sports. Additionally, some voting restrictions have disproportionately affected people of color and African Americans, potentially hindering their ability to vote freely. Concerns have been raised about the state’s education standards, which some believe do not adequately address the historical atrocities of slavery and its lasting impact on African Americans. These issues have led to ongoing discussions about the need for greater equality and inclusivity in Florida.
In response to discriminatory laws and policies, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity has courageously relocated its highly anticipated 2025 convention from Orlando to an unspecified location. The administration under Governor Ron DeSantis has put in place harmful and racist regulations, which has led to this decision by the fraternity. This move will undeniably affect Florida’s economy, as the convention usually draws 4,000 to 6,000 attendees and generates a substantial economic impact of $4.6 million. Nonetheless, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is firmly taking a stand against discrimination by actively supporting advocacy initiatives to counter the ongoing attack on communities in Florida orchestrated by Governor Ron DeSantis.
In a bold move, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity has decided to relocate its convention from Florida. This action is a clear statement against the detrimental impact of discriminatory laws and policies on marginalized communities such as African Americans, individuals of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. The aim of these policies, which have faced widespread criticism, is to silence the voices that need to be heard. That highlights the utmost significance of advocacy and activism in supporting their ongoing struggle for justice and equality. That is precisely why we must unite to oppose discriminatory laws and policies.
References:
- “Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. to Move 2025 Convention from Florida Due to Harmful Policies Toward African Americans.” P.R. Newswire, 3 Aug. 2021.
- “NAACP Issues Travel Advisory for Florida Warning of Racially Discriminatory Practices and Events.” NAACP, 7 June 2021.
- “Florida Education Department O.K.s Plan to Teach Students Slavery ‘Could Be Applied for Their Benefit.’” NBC News, 17 July 2021.
- “Florida GOP Passes Voting Restrictions Targeting Black and Brown Voters.” The Hill, 30 Apr. 2021.
- “Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Transgender Sports Ban into Law.” USA Today, 1 June 2021.
Originally published at https://www.newsbreak.com.
