The oldest historically Black collegiate fraternity in the U.S. has announced its decision to relocate a planned convention from Florida in response to what it called “harmful, racist and insensitive” policies of Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration towards African Americans. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity stated that it will move its 2025 convention from Orlando to another location, yet to be determined. This convention draws thousands of people and contributes $4.6 million to the economy.
The fraternity’s decision comes after the NAACP and other civil rights organizations issued a travel advisory for Florida, citing openly hostile laws and policies towards African Americans, people of color, and LGBTQ+ community members. Willis Lonzer, the fraternity’s general president, expressed that their decision was spurred in part by Florida’s new education standards, which require middle school teachers to instruct students that slaves developed skills for their own personal benefit.
Lonzer stated, “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.”
Florida has faced criticism over its new education standards, with even U.S. Senator Tim Scott, a Black Republican, criticizing Governor DeSantis. Defending his position, DeSantis remarked that he is “defending” Florida “against false accusations and against lies.”
This is not the first time that organizations have decided against hosting conventions in Florida due to its political climate. At least nine other organizations or associations have canceled events in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale for the same reason.
Florida relies heavily on tourism, with more than 137.5 million tourists visiting the state last year before the pandemic hit. This industry supports millions of jobs and generates billions of dollars in revenue.
Unique Perspective: The decision by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to move its convention from Florida is a powerful symbolic act against policies that are perceived as harmful to African Americans. It highlights the responsibility that organizations, corporations, and associations have in taking a stand when it comes to social justice issues. By boycotting a state or location, they send a strong message that discrimination and injustice will not be tolerated. This decision also serves as a reminder that economic impact can be influenced by matters of social conscience.
