NAACP issued a formal travel advisory for Florida on Saturday in response to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “aggressive attempts to erase Black history and to restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida schools.”
In addition to the League of United Latin American Citizens and LGBTQ advocacy group Equality Florida, the civil rights organization is the latest to warn travelers not to visit Florida.
The NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson said the state of Florida has become hostile to Black Americans under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, and is in direct conflict with the democratic ideals that led our union to exist. We are not backing down, and we urge our allies to join us in this battle for our nation’s soul. Democracy will triumph because its defenders are prepared to stand up and fight.”
According to CBS News, DeSantis’ office declined to comment on the travel advisory. DeSantis is expected to launch a presidential campaign in the near future.
African American studies Advanced Placement courses for high school students were blocked by the DeSantis administration in January.
The NAACP travel notice states that “Florida is openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color, and LGBTQ+ people.” “Before you travel to Florida, please be aware that the state of Florida devalues and marginalizes African Americans and other communities of color.”
According to Visit Florida, approximately 137.6 million people visited the state in 2022, contributing $101.9 billion to the state’s economy and supporting more than 1.7 million jobs.
Most recently, Disney canceled a $1 billion plan to build a campus in Florida after criticizing the “Don’t Say Gay” law. It is one of the biggest draws for tourists.
Following DeSantis’ signing of the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, Equality Florida issued its advisory.
As a result of that law, along with other proposals under consideration, Florida’s classrooms have become political battlegrounds, signaling to LGBTQ families and students that they are not welcome there.
Organization president Domingo Garcia called the new immigration laws “hostile and dangerous,” saying they pose a clear and present danger to Latinos.
“Florida is a dangerous and hostile environment for law-abiding Americans and immigrants,” Garcia said.
