Tim Scott criticizes Florida’s Black history curriculum: “Slavery lacks any positive aspect”

Sen. Tim Scott, a Republican presidential candidate from South Carolina, criticized Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his state over their controversial new standards on teaching Black history in middle school. The curriculum includes instruction on how “slaves developed skills” that “could be applied for their personal benefit.” Scott firmly stated that there is no silver lining in slavery and emphasized the devastating impact it had on families, human beings, and their wives. He called on every person, especially those running for president, to appreciate the gravity of slavery. Scott also suggested that Florida’s Black history standard should be a topic of discussion on the campaign trail.

DeSantis initially distanced himself from the uproar over the new standard, claiming that he had no involvement in it. However, his response was met with criticism from his opponents. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie argued that DeSantis’ words were not those of leadership. It was evident from DeSantis’ comments that he was uncomfortable with the situation, according to Christie.

GOP Rep. Byron Donalds, the only Black member of Florida’s congressional delegation, faced backlash from DeSantis’ campaign and Florida officials for his mild criticism of the standard. Donalds praised the overall curriculum but expressed concern about highlighting the personal benefits of slavery. DeSantis’ allies attempted to associate Donalds with Vice President Kamala Harris, who also criticized the standards in a recent speech. Florida’s Education Commissioner, Manny Diaz Jr., questioned Donalds’ conservatism and accused him of aligning with Democrats who oppose the standards. DeSantis’ press secretary, Jeremy Redfern, stated that Florida would not hide the truth for political convenience.

In defense of the new standards, DeSantis argued that Harris was trying to “demagogue” the issue. He compared the controversial line in the standards to language in an AP African American Studies course framework, which Florida initially rejected. The framework mentioned how enslaved people in the North and South learned specialized trades and used those skills to provide for themselves and others after gaining freedom.

Donalds, who has endorsed former President Donald Trump, clarified his statement and accused those misinterpreting it of being disingenuous. DeSantis denied picking a fight with Donalds and urged his colleagues in Florida to stand up for their state and not side with Kamala Harris.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Florida’s new standards on teaching Black history has become a topic of discussion among Republican presidential candidates. While Scott rebuked DeSantis and emphasized the devastating impact of slavery, DeSantis defended the standards and accused Harris of trying to exploit the issue for political gain. The disagreement between DeSantis and Donalds has also intensified, with allies on both sides exchanging criticisms on social media.

Original Story at www.cbsnews.com – 2023-07-28 04:56:00