Florida’s Secretary of State, Cord Byrd, recently announced a public survey aimed at gathering input on the creation of a museum dedicated to the history of communism. This initiative follows the passage of Florida’s CS/CS/SB 1264, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis in April 2024. The legislation mandates that the Department of State, in collaboration with the Department of Education, submit recommendations to the legislature on the museum’s creation by December 1, 2024. The survey will be open until November 1, 2024, allowing Floridians to contribute their views on the museum’s purpose and design.

Secretary Byrd emphasized the importance of public input, stating, “I encourage all interested parties to take the time to complete and share the short online survey.” The state aims to create a comprehensive museum that sheds light on the impact of communism globally, including its historical atrocities and the millions of lives affected by communist regimes.

This proposed museum adds to a growing interest across the U.S. in addressing the history and consequences of communism. While Florida’s project is unique at the state level, the concept of such a museum isn’t entirely new. In Washington, D.C., the Victims of Communism Museum opened in 2022 after years of planning. The museum, which honors the memory of more than 100 million people killed under communist regimes, provides a detailed examination of communist ideologies and their impacts. It also highlights the stories of those still suffering under oppressive regimes today. This museum offers a potential model for Florida’s upcoming initiative.

This is a significant move by Florida to add to national and global dialogues about the importance of remembering the human cost of communism and fostering education around this chapter of history. The survey offers Floridians a direct role in shaping this educational effort, ensuring their voices are part of the conversation.

Please take a moment and fill out the survey so your voice can be heard.  The link is here.