This decision was made due to the "harmful, racist, and insensitive" policies of Governor Ron DeSantis' administration towards African Americans.
The convention, which draws between 4,000 and 6,000 people and has an economic impact of $4.6 million, will now be held at a yet-to-be-determined location.
The decision comes in the wake of a travel advisory issued by the NAACP and other civil rights organizations, warning that recently passed laws and policies in Florida are openly hostile towards African Americans, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
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Willis Lonzer, the fraternity's general president, stated in a press release on Wednesday that the decision was partly motivated by Florida's new education standards, which require teachers to instruct middle school students that slaves developed skills that "could be applied for their personal benefit." Lonzer added, "Although we are moving our convention from Florida, Alpha Phi Alpha will continue to support the strong advocacy of Alpha Brothers and other advocates fighting against the continued assault on our communities in Florida by Governor Ron DeSantis."
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Governor DeSantis, who is currently running for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, has faced criticism this week over Florida's new education standards. U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, the sole Black Republican in the Senate and a rival for the Republican nomination, joined the chorus of critics. In response, DeSantis defended his actions, stating that he was "defending" Florida "against false accusations and against lies. And we're going to continue to speak the truth."
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The NAACP, along with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and Equality Florida, issued travel advisories for Florida in May, citing laws that prohibited state colleges from having programs on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as critical race theory. They also highlighted the Stop WOKE Act, which restricts certain race-based conversations and analysis in schools and businesses. The groups further pointed to laws that they believe have made life more difficult for immigrants in Florida and limited discussions on LGBTQ topics in schools.
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In addition to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, at least nine other organizations or associations have decided to cancel conventions in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, two of Florida's most popular convention cities, due to the state's political climate.
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Florida is a top tourist destination in the U.S., with tourism being one of the state's largest industries. Last year, over 137.5 million tourists visited Florida, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels. Tourism supports 1.6 million full-time and part-time jobs, and visitors spent $98.8 billion in the state in 2019.
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The decision by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to relocate its convention serves as a significant blow to Florida's tourism industry and highlights the growing concern over the state's policies towards marginalized communities. As the debate over these policies continues, it remains to be seen how Florida will address the impact on its reputation and economy.
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