Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) has challenged Vice President Kamala Harris over her critique of Florida’s new African-American history curriculum, inviting her to Tallahassee to discuss the actual details of his policy.
Last month, Harris alleged that the state’s new standards were an attempt to “gaslight” students into believing slaves “benefited from slavery.” DeSantis, backed by Republicans and curriculum co-developer Dr. William Allen, former chairman of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, disputes this.
The curriculum in question examines the duties and trades slaves were required to perform, with an added clarification that some slaves developed skills for personal benefit.
DeSantis issued an open invitation to Harris to visit Tallahassee and discuss these standards with himself and Dr. Allen, a descendant of slaves who staunchly defends the new standards. DeSantis writes, “In Florida we are unafraid to have an open and honest dialogue about the issues.”
With Harris scheduled to speak in Orlando, a meeting would not pose logistical challenges. Harris’ team, as per CNN, had swiftly arranged a previous trip to Florida where she launched her initial critique. DeSantis expressed readiness to meet as early as Wednesday.
Harris’ camp has not responded to requests for comment.
