Dorian Waller
In response to the racial tension and injustice in Florida, two major black organizations, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), have moved their upcoming conferences to different locations. This move is a direct result of the policies implemented by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, which have been deemed harmful and racist by these organizations. The economic impact of these conferences on the state is substantial, with millions of dollars in potential revenue now lost.
Relocation Amid Desantis’ New Policies
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was set to hold its 119th-anniversary convention in Orlando in 2025. However, due to DeSantis’ policies against the Black community, the organization has decided to relocate its event. With over 200,000 members and 700 chapters globally, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. represents a significant network of individuals fighting against racial injustice.
The convention was expected to bring an economic upsurge of $4.6 million to Florida, highlighting the financial repercussions of these policy choices.
Willis L. Lonzer III, the General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., affirmed the organization’s commitment to advocating for change in Florida. He stated:
“Although we are moving our convention from Florida, Alpha Phi Alpha will continue to support the strong advocacy of Alpha Brothers and other advocates fighting against the continued assault on our communities in Florida by Governor Ron DeSantis.”
Growing Concerns In Florida
Similarly, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), a renowned organization with over 18,000 members and 800 chapters globally, has decided to relocate its 2024 conference from Orlando, Florida, to Atlanta, Georgia. The move reflects NSBE’s concern over the current environment in Florida and its commitment to providing the best experience for its members.
The 50th-anniversary event was expected to generate significant economic benefits for the local region through vendors and businesses.
A Larger Movement
Avery Layne, the National Chair of NSBE, emphasized the importance of creating a positive backdrop for their milestone event. He explained:
“When we are thinking about the things that are in the history and the founding of our organization and the experience that we want to provide for our members going forward, that’s really what our move is about.” Janeen Uzzell, NSBE CEO, echoed this sentiment, describing the organizations’ decision as a modern-day revolution, highlighting young people’s ability to pivot and change direction.
This decision by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and NSBE reflects a larger movement within the black community to push back against discriminatory policies. The organization’s decisions to move its conferences elsewhere demonstrate its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for its members. While there has been no response from Governor Ron DeSantis or his administration, it is clear that these organizations are taking a stand for equality and justice.
Updated by Kynedei Hobbs on August 2nd, 2023.
Will Miami Heat Players Take A Stand Against Ron DeSantis’ Policies Amid NAACP’s Travel Advisory?
As the Miami Heat compete in the NBA Finals against the Denver Nuggets, a larger question looms over the team: Will players like Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and other Black players on the team use their platform to address the policies of Governor Ron DeSantis?
The NAACP has issued a travel advisory for Florida due to DeSantis’ policies, and the Miami Heat’s history of speaking out on social justice issues raises the possibility of them taking a stand against the governor’s actions. In the 2020 NBA bubble, players on the team knelt during the national anthem to protest racial injustice.
However, the team has remained relatively silent regarding Governor Ron DeSantis’ policies that impact the African-American community.
One of the critical issues surrounding Governor DeSantis is his decision to block an African-American history AP course from being taught in Florida’s public schools.
This move directly contradicts the efforts of The College Board to make the course more widely available across the country. With their diverse roster and influence, The Heat could shed light on the importance of inclusive education and advocate for teaching African-American history in Florida schools.
Additionally, Governor DeSantis signed the Stop WOKE Act in 2022, which aims to combat what is referred to as “woke indoctrination,” and bans teachings such as critical race theory. This act has sparked outrage and debate across the political spectrum.
The Miami Heat, known for their social activism, could take a stand against this legislation and highlight the importance of open dialogue and inclusive education.
Updated by Dorian Waller on 6/5/2023
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.
