ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Commemorates Victims of Communism Day

November 7, 2025

Governor's Press Office 850-717-9282 [email protected]

Governor Ron DeSantis Commemorates Victims of Communism Day

Miami, Fla. - Today, Governor Ron DeSantis joined Floridians across our great state in commemorating Victims of Communism Day, a solemn day of remembrance for the more than 100 million men, women, and children who lost their lives under communist regimes. Governor DeSantis signed House Bill 395 into law in 2022, which established Victims of Communism Day in Florida and required students to learn about the failures and atrocities of communist regimes.

"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 he destructiveness of Marxism-Leninism, and appreciate the founding principles of the American republic.

"Communism has destroyed nations, silenced faith, and robbed generations of their God-given freedoms," said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. "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 must include topics, 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
• Nicolás Maduro and the Chavismo movement

In 2024, Governor DeSantis expanded Florida's commitment to teaching students the lasting consequences of communism by signing Senate Bill 1264 into law. This bill requires comprehensive instruction on the history of communism beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.

The Florida Department of Education convened Florida educators and content experts to develop rigorous state academic standards to provide students with a deep understanding of how communist regimes have suppressed freedoms, abused power, and inflicted suffering across the world. The State Board of Education is expected to take action on the proposed History of Communism standards at their upcoming meeting on November 13.