Over the weekend, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) stirred up controversy by issuing a clearly politically driven ‘travel advisory‘ against Florida and it’s Republican Governor and soon to be 2024 candidate for President.
The warning comes in response to what they describe as a direct assault on the rights of Black Americans and other minorities by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration.
In the advisory notice, the NAACP urged caution for those considering a trip to Florida.
The group asserted that the Sunshine State demonstrates open antagonism toward African-Americans, individuals of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The civil rights organization expressed concern over the perceived devaluation of contributions from African-Americans and other minorities by Florida.
They said, “Please understand, before setting foot in Florida, that this state tends to marginalize and minimize the societal input and challenges encountered by African-Americans and other minorities.”
The group criticized DeSantis for policies that they claim criminalize protests, limit teachings on Black history, and counter initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion.
Leon Russell, Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors, released a statement alongside the advisory, claiming that state leaders driven by hatred have placed political agendas over the welfare of their people.
“Governor Ron DeSantis and the state of Florida have launched a flagrant assault against the principles of diversity and inclusion, appealing to a dangerous extremist minority by rejecting our shared identities,” said Russell.
Recently, DeSantis enacted a law prohibiting public colleges and universities from allocating funds to programs that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Earlier this year, Florida’s Department of Education, led by Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr., strongly opposed changes to an Advanced Placement course on African American Studies, citing fears of “woke indoctrination disguised as education.”
In 2021, DeSantis approved a law imposing stricter penalties for crimes committed during violent protests or riots, also declaring the destruction of symbols memorializing historical events or people as felonies.
However, legal hurdles have delayed the law’s enforcement.
The advisory urged Florida residents to stand against the Governor’s perceived regressive policies.
“Join us in our advocacy efforts to overturn the regressive policies of this Governor and this state legislature,” read the statement.
The NAACP has stated that the advisory will remain in effect until the situation changes in Florida.
RELATED: Gov Ron DeSantis Signs Bill Banning State Funding for DEI Programs at Florida Public Universities
