Governor Ron DeSantis joined residents across Florida in observing Victims of Communism Day, a day set aside to remember the more than 100 million people who died under communist regimes. The observance follows legislation signed by DeSantis in 2022, House Bill 395, which established the day and mandated that students learn about the failures and atrocities associated with communism.
“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 educational initiative. “Communism has destroyed nations, silenced faith, and robbed generations of their God-given freedoms,” said Kamoutsas. “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.”
The law requires that instruction on Victims of Communism Day cover topics related to communist regimes’ impact on individual freedoms and historical events.
In 2024, Governor DeSantis further expanded these efforts by signing Senate Bill 1264 into law. This bill mandates comprehensive instruction on the history of communism beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.
To support these requirements, the Florida Department of Education assembled educators and subject matter experts to develop new academic standards focused on providing students with an understanding of how communist governments have limited freedoms, abused authority, and caused suffering globally. The State Board of Education is scheduled to consider these proposed History of Communism standards at its meeting on November 13.
