Governor Ron DeSantis participated in the commemoration of Victims of Communism Day, a day dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives under communist regimes. The observance honors over 100 million victims globally and is marked on November 7 in Florida following the signing of House Bill 395 into law by Governor DeSantis in 2022. This legislation also requires that students learn about the failures and atrocities associated with communist governments.
“Three years ago, I signed legislation to designate November 7th as Victims of Communism Day in the state of Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We remember those who demonstrated courage, made sacrifices and endured hardship while fighting for freedom and against communism. We must ensure the students learn the lessons of history, recognize he destructiveness of Marxism—Leninism, and appreciate the founding principles of the American republic.”
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas commented on the significance of this initiative: “Communism has destroyed nations, silenced faith, and robbed generations of their God-given freedoms. Florida stands firmly against this failed ideology and remains committed to teaching the truth about its atrocities. By confronting the evils of communism, we reaffirm our state’s enduring belief in liberty and the power of education to preserve freedom and our American way of life.”
In 2024, Governor DeSantis furthered these educational efforts by signing Senate Bill 1264 into law. This new law mandates comprehensive instruction on communism’s history for students starting with the 2026–2027 school year.
The Florida Department of Education assembled educators and content experts to create detailed academic standards aimed at helping students understand how communist regimes have limited freedoms, misused authority, and caused suffering worldwide. The State Board of Education is scheduled to consider these proposed History of Communism standards at its meeting on November 13.
