Critical Race Theory

Ron DeSantis' educational policies have faced wide criticism, but they also have paid off politically.

Educators, school officials and several Florida public school districts, including Broward County, said critical race theory never has been part of Florida’s K-12 curriculums.

Juneteenth has only been recognized as a federal holiday since 2021. But Black American communities have marked the occasion for more than 150 years.

The NAACP joined a Latino civil rights organization and a gay rights advocacy group in issuing travel advisories for the Sunshine State, where tourism is one of the state's largest job sectors.

They addressed several bills under consideration, including legislation that would to eliminate diversity programs and critical race theory from higher education.

Said a reporter for the Chronicle of Higher Education: "It really goes beyond what we’ve seen I think in almost any other state.”

The nonprofit, American Oversight, is requesting records involving communication between state and federal education officials, outside groups, and the office of Gov. DeSantis.

The American Historical Association recently issued a statement opposing Florida's HB 999, which they argue would give the state too much power over higher education.

The Senate version of the measure also no longer includes a ban on majors and minors in critical race theory, intersectionality and certain gender studies. Yet, that language remains in the House version of the bill.

Gov. Ron DeSantis recently held a roundtable with his allies in education to talk about efforts to remove diversity, equity and inclusion programs from higher education.

Critics said the bill would disadvantage college students when they seek employment after graduation, could endanger accreditation of Florida courses and would stifle academic freedom on campuses.

A parents' rights activist, a Christian nationalist and three lawyer donors now have control over Walt Disney World's development capabilities, thanks to a bill signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.