Thinking Amidst DeSantis’ Florida: Meditations of Black History Month
By Dr. Judite Blanc, February 2024
In my journey from initial skepticism to acknowledging the pervasive realities of racialization and misogynoirism within American and other Western societies, I’ve undergone a profound personal transformation deeply rooted in lived experiences. As a womanist academic and mother, these realizations have profoundly shaped my perspective and ignited a deep commitment to healthy and transformative societies.
Contemplating the purpose behind my relocation to Florida during COVID-19 and the potential impact of my presence in a state grappling with systemic issues of racism, anti-intellectualism, sexism, and discrimination evokes a profound sense of responsibility. As I navigate this crossroads, I question the alignment between my professional aspirations and the socio-political realities of my environment.
For instance, over the preceding three years, amidst a public health crisis, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has been linked to the implementation of numerous policies that have faced criticism for being anti-minorities. These policies span various domains, encompassing:
• LGBTQ+ rights,
• Healthcare,
• Education,
• Reproductive rights,
• Gun control,
• Immigration, and
For example, Governor DeSantis initiated a campaign perceived as anti-Black against the teaching of accurate U.S. racial history, hindering efforts toward diversity, equity, and inclusion. Moreover, echoing the practices of several Southern states, Florida has a historical context marked by the enforcement of Jim Crow laws that upheld racial segregation and discrimination. Additionally, Florida has exhibited resistance toward the LGBTQ+ community, notably being the pioneer in initiating state-sponsored persecution of homosexuals and being the last state to revoke an outdated prohibition on homosexual adoptions. Furthermore, Florida’s implementation of the “Stand Your Ground” rule has stirred controversy and debate, particularly in cases where it has been invoked in the fatal shootings of unarmed Black individuals. Over the past 24 hours, my family and I have experienced a tumultuous range of emotions following a medical incident at a Miami Hospital. As a Black family, we felt dehumanized and traumatized after struggling to have our voices heard by an aggressive and entirely white medical team.
Before settling down in the US more than seven years ago, I was often annoyed by the constant reference to race by African Americans in their daily lives. This annoyance stemmed from ignorance and my training in a universalist French context, which is inherently hostile to every initiative aimed at strengthening marginalized communities because viewed as essentialist and/or “communautariste”. However, my perspective shifted dramatically upon becoming a Black woman in America, and later a womanist academic mom in DeSantis-Florida, since 2021. It was then that I brutally realized African Americans, particularly Black feminists were right about racialization and misogynoirism. Reflecting on my racialization and misogynoirist experience requires an entire memoir that will come sooner rather than later.
However, I am currently at a crossroads where I seriously reconsider my choice of relocating to Florida. Mind you, I am grateful to the Floridian academic institution that welcomed me and all my mentors for their guidance and support. However, I am grappling to make sense of the purpose of my presence in DeSantis-Florida: was it a big mistake in my professional career, or did my ancestors send me here to bear witness to the cruelty of Florida law, particularly toward Blacks, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and children, so I can be that womanist scientific voice who advances data to transform marginalized people’s lives?
As we celebrate Black History Month and reflect on the rich legacy of resilience, creativity, and civil rights advocacy within the Black and African descent communities, it is imperative to recognize the ongoing struggles and challenges that persist in the fight for racial equality, gender equity, or social justice. While we applaud the remarkable achievements of Black individuals in the realms of entertainment and activism and acknowledge the invaluable role of the Black church as a pillar of support, it is essential to also consider the path forward for Black families, women, and children in the face of systemic inequities and oppression.
In this context, these lines are written to articulate the critical importance of increasing representation in key professions such as law studies, medicine, and engineering as a means of empowering marginalized communities, particularly Black communities, and combating systemic inequities. Through education, advocacy, and mentorship, individuals within these professions can effect meaningful change, challenge oppressive practices, and promote healthier and equitable societies.
As a biobehavioral scientist and health equity researcher, I recognize lawyers’ vital role in challenging systemic barriers and holding institutions accountable for oppressive practices. The presence of Black lawyers as experts and watchdogs can ensure equitable representation within the legal and political systems and serves as a source of inspiration and mentorship for future generations. Similarly, I will continue to join forces with Black doctors’ activists to emphasize the importance of Black doctors in addressing health disparities, advocating for culturally competent care, and addressing institutional biases within the healthcare system. By increasing representation in medicine, Black communities gain access to healthcare professionals who understand their unique needs and are committed to addressing the root causes of health inequities. Furthermore, engineers, with their innovation and problem-solving skills, contribute to economic development and social progress. By increasing the number of Black engineers, communities gain access to individuals who can develop solutions to pressing social issues and promote economic empowerment through innovation and entrepreneurship.
As we commemorate Black History Month and honor the resilience, creativity, and activism of Black individuals, I am reminded of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice. My presence in Florida, as a womanist academic and advocate for change, represents a beacon of hope and possibility for marginalized communities. By leveraging my platform and expertise, I am committed to amplifying marginalized voices, challenging systemic injustices, and paving the way for a more equitable and just society. My science has been and will remain an indigenous science for the people!
Dr. Judite Blanc
