Florida’s Department of Education has rejected an Advanced Placement course in African American studies for high school students, citing what it calls “the woke indoctrination” of students. Manny Diaz Jr., Florida’s education commissioner, said parts of the course were “masquerading as education.” The department claims that the course violates state laws restricting how race can be taught in the classroom.
The course, which was to be offered at high schools across the state, was intended to educate students on the history and experiences of African Americans. It focused on the African American experience in the United States, and sought to explore topics such as the African American freedom struggle, the civil rights movement, and the Black Lives Matter movement.
Critics of the decision argue that the course is a necessary step in educating students about the history of African Americans and the struggles they have faced in the United States. They also worry that the rejection of the course will only serve to further divide students along racial lines, and that it sends the message that the state does not value the experiences and contributions of African Americans. Supporters of the decision argue that the course could be used to indoctrinate students and push a certain political agenda. They argue that such a course should focus on facts and leave out personal opinions and beliefs. Furthermore, they say that the course should be taught in a way that is respectful and unbiased towards all races, rather than focusing solely on the African American experience.
The debate over the Advanced Placement course in African American studies is indicative of a larger conversation about how racial issues should be taught in the classroom. While some argue that it is important to provide students with a comprehensive education about the history and experiences of African Americans, others worry that such courses could be used to push a certain political agenda. As this debate continues, the Florida Department of Education’s decision to reject the course remains controversial.