“Defying DeSantis and Defying God” – Controversy Erupts as Florida Churches Teach Black History

Gabriel RomanNov 28, 2023

Minute Read

Florida’s educational landscape is undergoing significant changes, particularly regarding teaching Black history. The state’s recent curriculum revisions have sparked intense debate. They have also led to unique responses from various community sectors, especially Black churches and organizations.

Florida’s Curriculum Changes Spark Backlash

Florida recently revised its K-12 educational curriculum, leading to widespread criticism. Some see these changes as restrictive. They have particularly affected how Black history is taught in schools. This controversial shift in educational policy has prompted various responses from the community and educational leaders.

Governor DeSantis Faces Criticism Over Educational Reforms

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Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has been at the center of this controversy. The alterations to the curriculum introduced under his administration have been met with backlash. They reflect a broader debate on the state’s educational policies and historical narratives. The backlash will likely have consequences for DeSantis and his dreams of presidency.

Intensified Debate Over AP African American Studies Course Rejection

The Florida Department of Education’s decision to discard the Advanced Placement course in African American Studies has become a lightning rod in debates over educational content. Critics argue that this move deprives students of a comprehensive understanding of Black history. They argue it is a setback in efforts to broaden the historical narrative taught in schools.

Jeremy Redfern’s Stance on the Course’s Educational Merit

Amid this controversy, Governor DeSantis’ press secretary, Jeremy Redfern, strongly objected to the AP African American Studies course. He argued that the course lacked “historical accuracy” and “educational value.” Redfern’s statement underscored the ideological divide in Florida’s approach to education.

Debate Over Curriculum’s Interpretation of Slavery

A particular aspect of the revised curriculum that has sparked significant debate is the suggestion that slaves acquired skills for their own “personal benefit.” This statement has been met with substantial criticism for seemingly downplaying the brutal realities of slavery. Critics argue that it doesn’t address the oppressive nature of slavery in American history.

Broad Disapproval of “Personal Benefit” Assertion in Curriculum

Additionally, this interpretation has been challenged by educators, historians, and public figures. This is part of a broader societal debate over how the history of slavery is presented and understood. The controversy highlights deep divisions in the narrative of American history education.

Polarized Views on Curriculum Changes from Harris and Watters

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The revised curriculum created contrasting reactions from prominent figures. Vice President Kamala Harris criticized the curriculum as “propaganda.” However, Fox News commentator Jesse Watters defended the curriculum as representing “historical fact.” These differing views show the polarized nature of the debate surrounding Florida’s educational reforms.

Governor DeSantis’ Justification of Curriculum Revisions

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In a press conference held in July, Governor DeSantis offered a defense for the controversial curriculum. He suggested it would include narratives about African Americans who used their skills post-slavery for better opportunities. DeSantis’ remarks have added to the ongoing debate about how Black history should be represented in educational curricula.

Black Pastors Offer Alternative Black History Education

Reacting to the curriculum changes, Black Floridian pastors have begun teaching lessons on Black history within their communities. They are taking a proactive role in educating about African-American history. They believe they counter an inadequate portrayal of Black history in the state-sanctioned curriculum.

Pastor Johnson Educates on Transatlantic Slave Trade

Pastor Kenneth Johnson from Friendship Missionary Baptist Church has been especially active. He has conducted online sessions about the transatlantic slave trade. His efforts demonstrate a broader trend among Black pastors to provide historical narratives that they believe are more accurate and comprehensive than those found in the current curriculum.

Pastor Johnson on Autonomous Historical Education

Pastor Johnson spoke openly about the teaching of history. He said, “We don’t need government approval to teach our history.” This declaration reflects a growing sentiment among Black community leaders to independently control the narrative of their history. They want to challenge state-imposed educational standards.

Faith in Florida’s Role in Developing Alternative Resources

Faith in Florida represents a coalition of community organizations. It has been key in developing alternative educational materials. They are trying to offer a more inclusive and accurate depiction of African American history, responding to what they see as weaknesses in the state’s curriculum.

Creation of a Unique African-American History Curriculum

Faith in Florida has developed its educational resources in response to the state’s curriculum, including an online toolkit. This initiative represents a direct challenge to the state’s educational approach. They are trying to provide a more nuanced and accurate representation of African-American history.

Linda Wiggins-Chavis on African Americans’ Historical Skills

Linda Wiggins-Chavis is a prominent member of Faith in Florida. She highlighted the importance of acknowledging the skills African Americans brought with them and developed despite the harsh conditions of slavery. Her statement challenges the narrative that these skills were merely a result of enslavement, offering a different perspective on African-American resilience.

Rhonda Thomas Advocates for Authentic History Education

Rhonda Thomas, the executive director of Faith in Florida, has been vocal about the necessity of teaching an unfiltered version of history. She stressed the importance of presenting a narrative that truthfully reflects the African-American experience. She advocated against a diluted or sanitized version of history.

Churches Caught Between Faith and History

Some critics argue, “The Black churches may be defying DeSantis, but they are also defying God. The Bible does not empower the church to teach history or social justice.” On the other hand, one user said, “First, there are many interpretations of the gospels, and they are used for as many purposes as there are churches. Second, when does any state regulate what is said in church?”

DeSantis’ Educational Policies Under Fire

Critics accuse DeSantis of avoiding the truth, commenting, “DeSantis has a habit of backing down from the truth. Education in Florida is bad, at best.” Another user said, “Educational Guidelines in a state that ranks 45th in SAT scores is a joke! Just like Ron!” One also said, “Good for those churches. Everyone in Floriduh should be fighting back against DeFascist and his wanting to be a latter-day Hitler.”

Future Generations’ Understanding of History at Stake

The potential long-term effects of Florida’s educational policies on future generations’ understanding of history have become a major concern. Critics warn that the current approach might erase key historical contributions and events from collective memory. One user said, “15 to 20 years from now, Florida, Texas, and Arkansas will have an entire generation of white kids who will believe the Tuskegee Airmen and Hidden Figures of NASA never existed.”