In a surprising move, the Florida Board of Education has recently approved new Black history standards that critics are calling "a big step backward." Yes, you heard it right. Apparently, the board believes that the best way to honor and recognize the contributions of Black Americans is to take a giant leap in the opposite direction. It's almost as if they were trying to set a new record for how out of touch they can be.
Under the new standards, students will now be required to learn about Black history exclusively through the lens of white historical figures. That's right, forget about Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, or Martin Luther King Jr. Instead, students will be treated to riveting tales of how white saviors graciously bestowed their wisdom upon the poor, ignorant Black masses.
One of the highlights of the new curriculum is a unit on "White Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement." Students will be regaled with stories of brave white activists who valiantly fought for the rights of their Black counterparts. Forget about the countless Black activists who risked their lives and sacrificed everything for equality. It's the white heroes who truly deserve the spotlight.
Another exciting addition to the curriculum is a section on "The Great White Explorers of Africa." Students will learn all about the heroic exploits of white explorers who ventured into the dark continent, conveniently ignoring the fact that Africans had been living there for centuries before their arrival. Who needs to learn about Mansa Musa, the Mali Empire, or the ancient Kingdom of Kush when you can focus on the adventures of white explorers who stumbled upon Africa by accident?
But perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of the new standards is the complete erasure of any mention of slavery. Yes, you read that correctly. Slavery, one of the most significant and horrific chapters in human history, will no longer be taught in Florida schools. Apparently, the board believes that pretending it never happened is the best way to move forward.
Unsurprisingly, critics have been quick to voice their concerns. "These new standards are a slap in the face to Black Americans," said one outraged parent. "It's like the board is actively trying to erase their contributions and rewrite history in favor of white supremacy."
Others have questioned the board's decision-making process. "Did they consult a time-traveling Confederate general before approving these standards?" one sarcastic commentator quipped. "Because it sure seems like they're stuck in the past."
Despite the backlash, the Florida Board of Education remains steadfast in its commitment to these new standards. "We believe that this is the best way to teach Black history," said one board member. "By focusing on white achievements, we can show our students that they too can accomplish great things, as long as they're white."
It's truly a shame that in a state as diverse as Florida, the Board of Education has chosen to take such a regressive approach to teaching Black history. Perhaps they should take a cue from the rest of the country and recognize that Black history is American history, and it deserves to be celebrated and taught in all its complexity and richness.
