The NAACP issued a formal travel advisory for the state of Florida, arguing the state, under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ leadership, “has engaged in an all-out attack on Black Americans” and other minority groups. This, of course, includes many black athletes around the country.
The statement further spoke on “aggressive attempts to erase Black history and to restrict diversity, equity and inclusion programs” in the state’s schools, the organization said in a statement.
The full statement by the NAACP stated:
“Under the leadership of Governor Desantis, the state of Florida has become hostile to black Americans and in direct conflict with the democratic ideals that our union was founded upon,” NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson said. “He should know that democracy will prevail because its defenders are prepared to stand up and fight. We’re not backing down, and we encourage our allies to join us in the battle for the soul of our nation.”
The advice was motivated by several measures passed into law by DeSantis recently, including Florida’s constitutional carry statute, restrictions on abortion access, and a ban on funding for DEI programs at Florida public colleges.
In March, Florida’s NAACP branch issued a travel caution for the state due to “anti-black legislation” in the state. The NAACP Board of directors then approved the advice.
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The advisory comes after DeSantis’ administration in January blocked an Advanced Placement course in African American Studies from being offered in Florida high schools.
It’s pretty hard for Black athletes who already play college or professional sports in the state to do much of anything as of right now.
The state of Florida has teams like the Florida Panthers, Seminoles, Miami Heat, Tampa Bay Rays, Dolphins, Orlando Magic, Hurricanes, Marlins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Bucs, and many more.