Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott has collaborated with Senators John Kennedy and Eric Schmitt to introduce the Crucial Communism Teaching Act, a legislative proposal aimed at educating students about the history and dangers of communism. This initiative is complemented by a companion bill in the House of Representatives introduced by Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar.

Senator Rick Scott expressed that "for families across America, particularly many in Florida, America shines as a beacon of freedom and democracy, standing in stark contrast to the communist regimes that once stripped them of their basic freedoms and liberties." He emphasized that the bill will provide schools with resources necessary for educating future generations on communism's dangers.

Senator John Kennedy described communism as "a cancer" that leads to "oppression, suffering and death," stressing the importance of teaching young Americans about its threat to liberty and justice worldwide.

Senator Eric Schmitt noted that "nearly one-third of Gen Z hold a ‘favorable opinion’ of communism," indicating an educational shortfall. He expressed pride in co-sponsoring the bill alongside Senator Kennedy.

Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar highlighted her community's understanding of communism's evils, stating that passing her act would ensure future generations remember the ideology's brutal history. She remarked, “My community in Miami understands the evils of communism very well, and we must ensure all Americans are aware of the death and misery it has caused.”

The proposed legislation seeks to make educational materials available through the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation for high school students. It also mandates teaching about how communism undermines America's founding principles.

According to data from the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, over 100 million people have died under communist regimes globally. Despite this, a significant portion of Millennials and Generation Z view communism favorably.