As a black-led social justice organization deeply committed to equitable opportunities and empowerment of marginalized communities, Equal Ground wholeheartedly opposes the decision made by the Florida Department of Education to exclude AP African American Studies course from the available curriculum options for students for the 2024-2025 academic school year.
African American Studies is not just a course; it is a vital tool for fostering understanding, empathy, and respect for diverse cultures and perspectives. The omission of such a critical course not only perpetuates the systemic erasure of African American history and contributions but also reinforces educational inequalities within our state.
By denying students the opportunity to engage with this subject at an advanced level, the Florida Department of Education is failing in its duty to provide a comprehensive and inclusive education for all learners. It sends a message that the experiences and achievements of African Americans are not worthy of rigorous academic exploration, which is not only unjust but also detrimental to the development of informed and empathetic citizens.
We call on the Florida Department of Education to reverse course and immediately make this course available to those students who choose to take it.