Governor Ron DeSantis joins Floridians in commemorating Victims of Communism Day and honoring those who suffered under oppressive regimes
Miami, Florida – Governor Ron DeSantis joined Floridians across the state today in marking Victims of Communism Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering the more than 100 million men, women, and children who lost their lives under communist regimes worldwide. The day, observed annually on November 7th, serves as a reminder of the suffering inflicted by authoritarian regimes and the courage of those who resisted oppression.
Governor DeSantis highlighted Florida’s commitment to preserving the memory of those who suffered under communism, citing his efforts to enshrine this remembrance in state law. In 2022, he signed House Bill 395, officially designating November 7th as Victims of Communism Day in Florida and mandating that students learn about the failures and atrocities of communist governments.
“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 the destructiveness of Marxism—Leninism, and appreciate the founding principles of the American republic.”
The commemoration also received support from Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas, who emphasized the importance of confronting the historic and ongoing threats posed by communist ideologies. “Communism has destroyed nations, silenced faith, and robbed generations of their God-given freedoms,” Kamoutsas said. “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.”
Instruction on Victims of Communism Day is comprehensive, covering some of the most notable leaders and movements associated with the ideology. Students are expected to learn about figures such as Vladimir Lenin and the Russian Revolution, Joseph Stalin and the Soviet system, Mao Zedong and the Cultural Revolution, Fidel Castro and the Cuban Revolution, Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, and Nicolás Maduro and the Chavismo movement in Venezuela. The curriculum is designed to show not only the human cost of these regimes but also their broader political, social, and cultural impact.
In 2024, Governor DeSantis further expanded Florida’s educational commitment by signing Senate Bill 1264, which requires comprehensive instruction on the history of communism beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. The legislation ensures that students gain a deep understanding of how communist governments have abused power, suppressed freedoms, and inflicted suffering across the globe.
To support the initiative, the Florida Department of Education convened educators and content experts to develop rigorous academic standards for teaching the history of communism. The State Board of Education is expected to take action on the proposed standards during their upcoming meeting on November 13, finalizing guidelines that will shape how Florida students study this critical period in world history.
Victims of Communism Day not only commemorates those who suffered under oppressive regimes but also reinforces Florida’s commitment to teaching students the value of freedom and democracy. By integrating these lessons into the curriculum, state leaders hope to ensure that future generations understand both the historical consequences of communism and the enduring importance of individual liberty.
Governor DeSantis and state education officials stressed that remembrance, combined with education, strengthens the state’s broader mission: to uphold the principles of the American republic while confronting the ideologies that threaten liberty and human dignity. Florida’s observance of Victims of Communism Day serves as both a memorial and a teaching tool, reminding students and citizens alike of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.
