Sen. Collins introduces bill ordering Florida public schools teach ‘history of communism’
TAMPA, Fla. – Sen. Jay Collins, R-Fla., filed a bill Wednesday that would require Florida public schools to teach the history of communism along with establishing a History of Communism Task Force.
The teaching of communism, as recommended under SB 1264, would cover the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution of China and the Third Reich of Nazi Germany. It also would detail its ideology in Latina America, particularly the socioeconomic policies of Communist Cuba.
Furthermore, movements of communism and their tactics in the United States will be analyzed. The bill states a goal of the program is to “inform students that communism poses a threat to freedom.”
Cuba has long been ruled under Communism, including by former leaders Fidel and Raul Castro for over 60 years.
According to Pew research data, 64% of America’s Cuban population lived in Florida, far outpacing any other state in the country. South Florida, in particular, is home to many Cuban Americans who fled their home country due to communist rule since the 1950’s.
Communism is often practiced through Marxism, a theory founded by German economist Karl Marx. The term is a social, political, and economic philosophy arguing the effects of capitalism.
Marx studied, in part, capitalism’s role in labor, productivity, and economic development. He also believed a “work revolution” was necessary to replace capitalism with communism.
To kick-start the program, a “History of Communism Task Force” would be created. Overseen by the Department of Education, members would be appointed by the governor.
In addition, the task force may recommend to the Legislature the creation of a museum of communist history.
Children in grades K-12 are expected to study the history of communism, according to the bill. Moreover, Florida school districts are asked to certify to the Department of Education that the subject matter is being taught successfully.
Any changes to the curriculum will be recommended by the task force and the Division of Historical Resources. The deadline to submit any adjustments is July 1, 2025.
A companion bill has not yet been filed. If passed, SB 1264 will go into effect July 1, 2024.
