Governor DeSantis Extends Invitation to VP Harris for Discussion on Black History Standards

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has reached out to Vice President Kamala Harris, following her criticism of the state’s new African American History education standards. In a letter issued on Monday, DeSantis extended an invitation to Harris, expressing his willingness to engage in a discussion about the curriculum.

Harris had previously spoken about the standards in Jacksonville, where she denounced the curriculum as “propaganda.” Her visit came just two days after the Florida Board of Education approved revised African American History curriculum, a move that sought to comply with legislation signed by DeSantis. The updated standards include instruction on how enslaved individuals were able to utilize the skills they acquired for their personal advancement.

During her trip to Jacksonville, Harris posed a thought-provoking question, asking, “How is it that anyone could suggest that in the midst of these atrocities, there was any benefit to being subjected to this level of dehumanization?” Critics have seized upon this inquiry as they attack the curriculum. Furthermore, some argue that the coursework fails to adequately condemn historical figures who advocated for slavery.

In response to these criticisms, state leaders have defended the standards, asserting that they align with those set forth by the College Board. The College Board’s framework, which has been adopted by Florida, highlights the fact that enslaved individuals not only conducted agricultural work, but also acquired specialized trades and served as painters, carpenters, tailors, musicians, and healers in both the North and South. Once emancipated, these skills enabled African Americans to sustain themselves and contribute to society.

The standards, furthermore, mandate that Florida schools teach about significant black historical figures such as inventor Lonnie Johnson and George Washington Carver. In addition, history classes must explore and discuss the contributions of Africans in various domains, including society, science, poetry, politics, oratory, literature, music, dance, Christianity, and exploration in the United States from 1776 to 1865.

DeSantis’ letter to Harris expressed his concern over the Biden Administration’s repeated disparagement of Florida and misrepresentation of its education system. He emphasized that Florida has taken a leadership role by implementing standalone African American History standards, making it one of the few states to require such comprehensive learning on this vital subject.

Inviting Harris to Tallahassee, DeSantis proposed a meeting with Dr. William Allen, a former member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights who played a crucial role in developing Florida’s African American History curriculum. The governor extended an invitation for Harris to bring along an expert who shares her perspectives, stimulating a balanced conversation on the curriculum.

DeSantis’ letter concluded with an offer to meet as early as Wednesday of that week, while acknowledging Harris’ busy schedule and inquiring about any potential plans she may have to visit the southern border. The governor stressed the importance of setting an example for the nation through a serious and productive dialogue on this significant issue, expressing his hopes that Harris would be receptive to engaging in such a conversation.

In light of these developments, it remains to be seen whether Harris will accept DeSantis’ invitation and participate in a meaningful discussion regarding the state’s African American History education standards.