NAACP Issues Travel Advisory For Florida Due To Governor DeSantis’ Policies

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has issued a travel advisory for Florida, citing concerns over Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to erase Black history, diversity, and inclusion in the state’s education system. The advisory also highlights the impact on the LGBTQ+ community and other people of color, urging caution before traveling to Florida.

The NAACP’s travel advisory comes as a response to several notable pieces of legislation in Florida. Among them is an abortion ban after six weeks of pregnancy and the controversial “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which prohibits discussions of sexual orientation during classroom instruction. Governor DeSantis recently signed a bill banning public colleges and universities from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as The New York Times reported.

NAACP President’s Statement

NAACP President/CEO Derrick Johnson released a statement on the organization’s website, criticizing Governor DeSantis and the state of Florida for their hostile environment towards Black Americans. Johnson emphasizes the importance of defending democracy and encourages allies to join the fight.

Many took to social media to express their thoughts and concerns. One user on Twitter commented, “Even before this #NAACP travel advisory warning Blk folks about #Florida I determined I wouldn’t be visiting this state as long as #DeSantis  & its MAGA legislators were in control. Supporting #DemocracyMatters and #Equality. “

Another Twitter user chimed in with a lighter approach by jokingly saying, “I’ll be taking a stand on a Florida Beach in a couple of months while on vacation.” 

Previous Travel Advisory

In 2017, the NAACP issued a travel advisory warning people of color about traveling to Missouri after the passage of Bill 43. It made it more difficult for employees to prove protected class status, such as race or gender.

Now, Florida’s controversial “Stop WOKE Act,” which bans the discussion of race and gender in schools, has caused significant controversy.

Governor Ron DeSantis Rejects AP African-American History In Florida Schools

In related news regarding Governor Ron DeSantis, he recently signed a bill rejecting the teaching of AP African-American history in Florida schools. This decision has been met with opposition from Florida college students.