Kamala Harris Criticizes Florida’s Controversial Curriculum Teaching That Slavery Benefited Black People
During a convention for Delta Sigma Theta, a historically Black sorority, Vice President Kamala Harris spoke out against Florida’s new state curriculum that includes teaching middle school students that enslaved Black people benefited from slavery. The curriculum changes were approved under the Stop WOKE Act, signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in 2022.
In her speech, Harris expressed her dismay, stating, Just yesterday, in the state of Florida, they decided middle school students will be taught that enslaved people benefitted from slavery. They insult us in an attempt to gaslight us, and we will not stand for it. This strong statement echoes her previous challenging of Attorney General Jeff Sessions during a Senate hearing that propelled her into the national spotlight.
The new academic standards for social studies were outlined in a lengthy 216-page document. The changes specifically include the Ocoee Massacre, one of the worst acts of racial violence in U.S. history, which occurred in 1920 in Florida’s 15th district. However, State Senator Geraldine Thompson, a Democrat representing the district, raised concerns about the language used in relation to the massacre. Thompson expressed her worries about the inclusion of against and by in the curriculum, suggesting that it blames the victim rather than acknowledging the perpetrators of the violence against the Black community.
Moreover, Harris drew attention to the broader issue of revisionist history and book bans in Florida. She highlighted the extremists’ efforts to prevent students from learning the true history of America, stating, Speaking of our children, extremists pass book bans to prevent them from learning our true history. Book bans in this year of our Lord 2023. While they do this, check it out. They push forward revisionist history. Harris emphasized the need for accurate historical education to ensure a comprehensive understanding of America’s past.
While the controversy surrounding Florida’s curriculum changes continues to unfold, it is crucial to present diverse perspectives and opinions on the topic. The inclusion of different viewpoints can contribute to a balanced understanding and promote critical thinking among readers. However, critics argue that teaching that enslaved Black people benefited from slavery perpetuates a false narrative and undermines the lasting impacts of this horrific institution.
In conclusion, Vice President Kamala Harris has condemned Florida’s new academic standards that teach middle school students about the supposed benefits of slavery for enslaved Black people. The curriculum changes, approved under the Stop WOKE Act, have faced controversy and criticism from various individuals, including State Senator Geraldine Thompson. The ongoing discussions surrounding these changes highlight the importance of accurate historical education and the need to avoid revisionist narratives.
