
A major association is advising travelers to take caution before their next vacation to Florida. The N.A.A.C.P., the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, has been one of the country’s guiding lights throughout racial turmoil since 1909. Now, they are encouraging the public to think before their book their next vacation to the Sunshine State.
Florida Politics Drives Away Tourists
The N.A.A.C.P. has issued a formal travel advisory, urging tourists and visitors to exercise caution when traveling to Florida. They explain that the advisory responds to multiple instances of racial profiling, discrimination, and hate-inspired rhetoric from state leaders.
The advisory also cites instances of hate-inspired rhetoric from state leaders, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. In the past, Governor DeSantis proposed a law that would ban the teaching of critical race theory in Florida schools, a move that critics say is an attempt to erase black history and suppress civil rights education. Now, the N.A.A.C.P. believes that DeSantis’s latest behaviors are cause enough for a travel advisory.
On Saturday, May 20, 2023, the group issues the advisory, saying that Governor Ron DeSantis has made Florida a place that is “openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color and L.G.B.T.Q.+ individuals.”
It isn’t just the N.A.A.C.P. that has issued an advisory. The League of United Latin American Citizens issued a travel warning last Wednesday, May 17, and Equality Florida issued one last month.
NAACP Fights for Safety in Florida
In N.A.A.C.P.’s statement, the group explains, “The travel advisory comes in direct response to Governor Ron DeSantis’ aggressive attempts to erase Black history and to restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida schools.” The group hopes people will think before planning their next vacation to Florida.
The travel advisory has gained national attention, with many organizations and individuals speaking out supporting the N.A.A.C.P.’s efforts. Leon Russel, the Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors, stated;
“We will not not allow our rights and history to be held hostage for political grandstanding. The NAACP proudly fights against the malicious attacks in Florida, against Black Americans. I encourage my fellow Floridians to join in this fight to protect ourselves and our democracy.”
As of now, Gov. DeSantis has declined to comment.