The Stephen A. Smith Show: Detailed Summary

Episode Title: Stephen A's Take: Florida Students Give Up Saturdays for Black History
Release Date: December 25, 2024
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into a significant educational movement in Florida where students are dedicating their Saturday mornings to studying Black history. Smith provides a comprehensive analysis of the implications of this initiative, the political undercurrents influencing it, and its broader societal impact.

Florida Students Embrace Black History Education

[01:06] Stephen A. Smith:
"I noticed out of the state of Florida this weekend. From the Associated Press did y'all know there are students who are giving up their Saturday mornings to learn about black history?"

Smith begins by highlighting an initiative reported by the Associated Press, where Florida students are voluntarily sacrificing their weekend time to engage in Black history education at venues like the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach and various community centers across the state.

Key Points:

• State Mandate Compliance: Florida's school districts are adhering to state mandates that require education on slavery, abolition, and the contributions of African Americans.
• Curriculum Limitations: Despite these mandates, there is a prevalent concern among students and parents that the curriculum is restricted to iconic figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, with insufficient depth beyond Black History Month.

Applauding Educational Efforts

[02:15] Stephen A. Smith:
"First of all, I applaud the students for giving up their Saturday mornings. I applaud the teachers for making that time available..."

Smith commends both the students' dedication and the educators' efforts in providing additional time and resources for comprehensive Black history education. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the deep-rooted impacts of segregation and grassroots activism in shaping African American experiences.

Political Influence: Governor Ron DeSantis' Policies

[04:30] Stephen A. Smith:
"I wonder why that is. Could it be Governor Ron DeSantis? Could it be that he's the reason why faith has been lost in terms of things being taught about black history? I'd say so."

Smith transitions to a critique of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, suggesting that his administration's policies have fostered distrust in the state's education system regarding the adequacy of Black history education.

Critical Analysis:

• DeSantis' Educational Stance: Smith references DeSantis' actions to restrict discussions on race, history, and discrimination within public schools and businesses.
• Legislative Actions: In 2022, DeSantis signed a law aimed at curbing "wokeness" in education, which includes prohibiting teachings that suggest individuals today should feel guilt for historical actions like slavery.

[06:50] Stephen A. Smith:
"So in other words, because you're born white in this day and age... you bear no responsibility towards what your ancestors did. That's what Ron DeSantis' position was."

Smith critiques this stance, arguing that it dismisses the ongoing effects of historical injustices on African American communities and undermines the importance of historical accountability.

Demographic Shifts and Societal Implications

[08:15] Stephen A. Smith:
"We live in a predominantly white society... The numbers have dissipated. Once upon a time it was 85 to 90% white. Now the number has dipped last time I checked a few months ago to 57.4%..."

Addressing the changing demographics in the United States, Smith notes the decreasing percentage of the white population and the increasing influence of the Hispanic demographic. He suggests that these shifts may influence political priorities, such as immigration policies, which can further complicate discussions around race and history.

Importance of Comprehensive History Education

[10:00] Stephen A. Smith:
"When we try to act as if it's not something that should be taught... that's very incriminating."

Smith underscores the necessity of thorough history education in fostering an informed and equitable society. He warns against the dangers of erasing or minimizing historical truths, which can impede progress and perpetuate systemic inequalities.

[11:30] Stephen A. Smith:
"I'm simply saying we... When you try to act as if it's not something that should be taught... it's incredibly suspicious with all the problems that we got going on in this world."

By advocating for the preservation and deepening of Black history education, Smith emphasizes that understanding the past is crucial for addressing present-day challenges and ensuring that future generations are equipped to create meaningful change.

Personal Reflections and Conclusion

[12:00] Stephen A. Smith:
"I have no problem with any white person saying I have nothing to do with that... I get all of that."

In wrapping up his discussion, Smith shares personal insights on the significance of history in shaping individual character and societal values. He highlights the resilience of African Americans and the importance of recognizing personal responsibility beyond ancestral actions.

[12:30] Stephen A. Smith:
"If you don't teach people about history, they'll never know. If they never know, then they can't hold those accountable..."

Smith concludes by reiterating the vital role of education in fostering accountability, understanding, and progress, advocating for a balanced and truthful portrayal of history that honors all facets of the American experience.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• On Applauding Efforts:

  • "I applaud the students for giving up their Saturday mornings. I applaud the teachers for making that time available..." — [02:15]

• Critique of DeSantis:

  • "Because you're born white in this day and age... you bear no responsibility towards what your ancestors did." — [06:50]

• On Demographic Shifts:

  • "Once upon a time it was 85 to 90% white. Now the number has dipped last time I checked a few months ago to 57.4%..." — [08:15]

• Importance of Teaching History:

  • "When we try to act as if it's not something that should be taught... that's very incriminating." — [10:00]
  • "If you don't teach people about history, they'll never know. If they never know, then they can't hold those accountable..." — [12:30]

Conclusion

In this episode, Stephen A. Smith delivers a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of education, politics, and societal change. By examining Florida's initiative to educate students on Black history and critiquing the political maneuvers of Governor Ron DeSantis, Smith underscores the enduring importance of honest and comprehensive historical education in shaping a just and informed society.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the significance of preserving history, understanding demographic shifts, and the role of politics in educational policies. Smith's insights aim to motivate audiences to value and advocate for education that acknowledges and addresses the complexities of America's past and present.