Black and LGBTQ+ Americans have been advised not to travel to Florida after it was claimed that the state is engaging in ‘all-out attack’ on them and other minority groups.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People(NAACP) issued a formal travel advisory saying that “Florida is openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals”.
The formal advisory on the NAACP’s website says: “Before travelling to Florida, please understand that the state of Florida devalues and marginalizes the contributions of, and the challenges faced by, African Americans and other communities of color.”
A press release noted that the advisory was “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 cited various bills DeSantis signed into law as the motivation behind the advisory, including Florida’s constitutional carry law, restrictions on abortion access and a ban on funding for DEI programs at Florida public universities.
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Florida’s chapter of the NAACP first floated a travel advisory for the state in March over “anti-Black legislation” in the state. The advisory was then approved by the NAACP board of directors.
Leon Russell, chair of the NAACP Board of Directors, said: “Once again, hate-inspired state leaders have chosen to put politics over people. Governor Ron DeSantis and the state of Florida have engaged in a blatant war against principles of diversity and inclusion and rejected our shared identities to appeal to a dangerous, extremist minority.
“We will 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.”
Fox Business reported that, after the travel advisory warning in March, DeSantis responded: “This is a stunt to try to do that.
“It’s a pure stunt. And fine, if you want to waste your time on a stunt, that’s fine.
“But I’m not wasting my time on your stunts. I’m going to make sure that we’re getting things done here.”
