Introduction
The recent decision by the DeSantis administration and the Florida Department of Education to ban the AP course on African American History is profoundly concerning and not justifiable. By attempting to censor or limit the teaching of critical race theory and content related to race, Florida is denying the value of learning about the racism, inequity, and injustices that groups of color in the United States have faced.
Discussion
Moreover, this move benefits one narrative while disadvantaging the narratives of many (Florida’s AP African American studies ban should raise alarm elsewhere, lawmaker says, 2023). My reaction to states like Florida attempting to censor, limit, or outright ban the teaching of critical race theory and content related to race is one of disappointment and concern. By censoring the teaching of CRT, we risk perpetuating the status quo and erasing the stories and experiences of people of color and other marginalized groups. This creates a biased and incomplete educational narrative that fails to serve the needs of our students and perpetuates the oppressive power structures in our society.
State-level censorship of critical race theory and content related to race can have far-reaching implications for students of color in the state of Florida. I believe that it is essential for students to be exposed to critical race theory and content related to race to understand the racialization processes that have occurred in the United States over time. When the histories of oppressed and marginalized groups are silenced, there is a glorification of power and a continuation of oppressive narratives for the Natives (Florida’s AP African American studies ban should raise alarm elsewhere, lawmaker says, 2023).
Conclusion
By limiting the number of diverse perspectives and voices taught, a narrow, often one-dimensional view of history is put into place. It is vital that this type of censorship is prevented and that education promotes a greater appreciation of diverse perspectives.
Reference
Florida’s AP African American studies ban should raise alarm elsewhere, lawmaker says. (2023). NPR. Web.