Protestors gathered Wednesday at the Freedom Tower in response to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ recent ban of some books in classrooms and his proposed prohibition of most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. The book ban comes after DeSantis’ decision to block the AP African American studies course proposed by College Board, leaving many feeling that the newfound legislation is a ploy for power and minority erasure. The governor, however, feels differently
“This ideologically driven course was not something that met our standards,” DeSantis said in his state of the state speech on Tuesday. “Somehow Florida prohibited teaching anything about black history and that’s not only not true, Florida law does the opposite, we require that.”
The protest was led by Florida Rising, a non-profit organization that rallies for economic and racial justice. They were joined by the Black Alliance for Just Immigration. Floridians gathered with signs, books and chants to show their outrage regarding the legislation.
“There’s no one out there sharing their nervousness or anxiety around how dangerous folks like Ron DeSantis are making things,” Dwight Bullard, senior political advisor for Florida Rising, said. “We wanted to give them an opportunity.”
The people of Miami chanted “Stand up and fight back!” while leading visual demonstrations, and providing reproductive resources. Protesters suggested they have no intention of backing down and that this protest will certainly not be the last.
