Miami/ Politics & Govt
AI Assisted Icon
Published on April 18, 2024
Florida Mandates Education on Communist Atrocities, Commemorates Bay of Pigs with New LawSource: Facebook/Governor Ron DeSantis

Florida's educational landscape is set to explicitly denounce communism following a recent bill signed by Governor Ron DeSantis. On the anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion, the governor enacted legislation to intensify the state's teaching standards concerning the perils of communism. According to CBS Miami, the law mandates that the subject be woven into the curriculum, emphasizing the ideology's shortcomings and historic failures.

In an attempt to solidify opposition to communist regimes, DeSantis was cited by WSVN saying, "So today we are here fighting tyranny, fighting communism, a little bit different venue, in a little bit different way through legislation." The law is to give students a stark view of communist atrocities to nurture an appreciation for American liberties. Starting in the 2026 school year, education on communism's history will be expanded statewide.

During the bill-signing event, which took place at a Hialeah Gardens museum that recognizes the efforts of Brigade 2506 from the Bay of Pigs invasion, DeSantis was joined by Florida's Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. Diaz Jr. emphasized the importance of teaching the dark reality of communism, stating, "It is vitally important that every student learns about the dangers of communism," as reported by CBS Miami. The legislation also sets the stage for an Institute for Freedom at Miami-Dade College, which aims to promote the values of economic and individual freedoms, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean.

According to CBS Miami, lawmakers also plan to erect a museum dedicated to the history of communism in Florida, with the aim to ensure the state remains a bastion of freedom. With guidance to be sought from victims of communist regimes, DeSantis affirmed, "We're going to tell the truth about communism in the state of Florida. We're going to tell the truth about the evils of communism." The curriculum enhancement will be introduced in a manner deemed age-appropriate for K-12 students.

The legislative move comes amid other reflections from Governor DeSantis, who took a moment to honor the late former U.S. Senator and two-term Florida Governor Bob Graham. DeSantis recognized Graham's contributions to the state and announced that flags would be lowered to half-staff on the day of Graham's interment, a sentiment reported by WSVN. Following the signing of the bill, an event was scheduled at the Martyr Monument in Little Havana to commemorate the anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion and remember those who fought against Castro's regime.