Florida Communities Take Charge of Teaching Black History

In Florida, where public schools are mandated to teach African American history, many students and families feel that the education system falls short in providing comprehensive lessons on the subject. Concerns have grown, especially under recent state measures that limit discussions on race and discrimination, leading to a lack of trust in the public education system’s handling of Black history.

In response, community-driven initiatives have emerged to fill these educational gaps. For instance, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach offers Saturday classes focusing on South Florida’s Caribbean roots, the state’s history of lynchings, and the impact of segregation. Similarly, organizations like Faith in Florida have developed Black history toolkits, with over 400 congregations pledging to teach these lessons.

These programs aim to provide students with a more accurate and thorough understanding of African American history, ensuring that the stories and contributions of Black individuals are properly acknowledged and preserved. By taking education into their own hands, these communities strive to empower the younger generation with knowledge that is both comprehensive and reflective of their heritage.