Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is facing backlash from civil rights activists and African American leaders over what they perceive as a pattern of “policy violence” against people of color. The controversy began after the release of an “anti-woke” public school curriculum on Black history, which requires teachers to instruct middle-school students that enslaved people “developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit.” Critics argue that this language downplays the horrors of slavery and erases Black history.
Despite criticism from Vice President Kamala Harris, two leading Black Republicans in Congress, and civil rights leaders, DeSantis has defended the new curriculum. He claims that his critics are intentionally misinterpreting one line of the curriculum and insists that it was not politically motivated. However, civil rights leaders argue that DeSantis has consistently used policy to undermine racial justice and restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida schools.
The controversy highlights the risks of DeSantis’ approach to racial issues as he seeks to strengthen his campaign for the presidency. While many ambitious Republican leaders have used white grievance to appeal to their predominantly white voter base, DeSantis has embraced far-right positions on race even more aggressively than his competitors. This strategy risks alienating voters of color and undermining his core message of electability against President Joe Biden.
DeSantis is facing criticism from Florida teachers, civil rights leaders, and even the Biden White House. Senator Tim Scott, the chamber’s sole Black Republican, directly rebuked DeSantis, calling for a clarification of his positions on slavery. Other Black conservatives, such as Representative Byron Donalds, have also expressed concerns about the curriculum. However, DeSantis’ administration has attacked Donalds and vowed not to change the teaching standards at the behest of a “woke” White House or a supposedly conservative congressman.
As DeSantis navigates the presidential race, his stance on race risks alienating potential conservative supporters and undermining the modest gains the Republican Party has made with voters of color. While some Republican strategists argue that the curriculum debate could alienate voters of color and suburban whites alike, others believe DeSantis is being unfairly criticized. They argue that the curriculum was approved by an African American scholar and is just one part of a larger curriculum.
The controversy surrounding DeSantis reflects the shift to far-right positions on race that has gained popularity within the GOP since Trump’s rise. While all the candidates in the GOP presidential primary have opposed critical race theory and denied that America is a racist nation, DeSantis has used his position as governor to enshrine conservative positions on race.
In conclusion, Governor Ron DeSantis is facing criticism for his approach to racial issues, particularly regarding a controversial school curriculum on Black history. As DeSantis eyes the presidency, his positions on race risk alienating voters of color and undermining his electability against President Joe Biden.