The College Board released an updated framework for an African American studies course Wednesday after the Florida Department of Education rejected a previous version Jan. 12.
Republican Florida Gov. DeSantis’ administration did not approve an African American studies course that included chapters on “queer theory” and taught tenets of critical race theory. The College Board announced it would release an updated framework for the pilot course.
The course removes a section on “black queer studies” that “explores the concept of the queer of color critique, grounded in Black feminism and intersectionality, as a Black studies lens that shifts sexuality studies toward racial analysis.” (RELATED: Politico Writer Bemoans That Florida Students Won’t Learn ‘How To Parse Maps Of The Songhai Empire’ Under DeSantis)
The new syllabus removes readings from critical race theorists such as Kimberlé Crenshaw and includes a stipulation that “the AP opposes indoctrination.”
“AP students are expected to analyze different perspectives from their own, and no points on an AP exam are awarded for agreement with any specific viewpoint,” the syllabus states.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 18: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks to guests at the Republican Jewish Coalition Annual Leadership Meeting on November 19, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The meeting comes on the heels of former President Donald Trump becoming the first candidate to declare his intention to seek the GOP nomination in the 2024 presidential race. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
The study of African American history is required in Florida schools.
“Students shall develop an understanding of the ramifications of prejudice, racism, and stereotyping on individual freedoms, and examine what it means to be a responsible and respectful person, for the purpose of encouraging tolerance of diversity in a pluralistic society and for nurturing and protecting democratic values and institutions,” Florida Department of Education guidance reads.
