Florida Lawmakers Clash Over Proposed School Curriculum on Communism History
Florida lawmakers engaged in a heated debate during a House panel meeting this week regarding a proposed curriculum on the history of communism for schoolchildren. Despite opposition, the bill, introduced by House Republicans in January, gained approval with a 10–2 vote in the Republican-controlled PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee.
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Florida lawmakers
The legislation mandates public schools to teach about the history of communism in the United States, as well as communist policies in Cuba and Latin America. It emphasizes lessons on the perceived “increasing threat” of communism during the 20th century, using examples like the Cultural Revolution in China. If passed, the curriculum would be implemented in the 2026-2027 academic year.
Miami Republican State Rep. Alina Garcia, a supporter of the bill, emphasized the importance of teaching children about the atrocities of communism, drawing on her personal experience as a Cuban immigrant. However, in Florida, the term “communism” often carries political connotations, with Republicans using it to criticize Democrats, as seen in former President Donald Trump’s false accusations against President Joe Biden and Democrats.
The bill’s introduction aligns with an election year, with both parties seeking support from Hispanic voters, including Cuban Americans. Critics argue against the bill, pointing to the irony of addressing communism while Florida has implemented book bans and restrictions on teaching about topics like slavery and African American studies.
Democratic State Rep. Patricia Williams expressed concern that the bill could create division in classrooms when schools are grappling with challenges in basic education. Meanwhile, Republican co-sponsor Chuck Brannan defended the proposal as an additional unit in history education, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of communism’s impact without promoting indoctrination or fear-mongering. Brannan highlighted Florida’s diverse community of communism victims from various countries, including Venezuela, Nicaragua, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, the former Soviet Union, and notably, the large Cuban population.
