From Newsweek · · 1m
Florida Driver's License Controversy
Florida's new driver's license with 'Let Us Alone' faces racism claims after historical ties to slavery.
In brief
Florida's new driver's license with 'Let Us Alone' faces racism claims after historical ties to slavery. Florida's new driver's license featuring 'Let Us Alone' is criticized for racist connotations linked to historical slavery. Originally reported by Newsweek.
New Florida Driver's License
Florida rolled out driver's licenses featuring an orange, alligator, and the phrase 'Let Us Alone' on the rear.
Historical Origin of Phrase
The phrase 'Let Us Alone' dates to Florida's first unofficial state flag from March 3, 1845.
Racist Connotations Claimed
Florida Representative RaShon Young called the phrase 'tone deaf' and linked it to historical slavery.
“Words do not exist outside of history”
Historical Context of Phrase
The phrase historically defended states' rights and slavery, with Florida's 1838 constitution banning slave emancipation laws.
Recent Political Use
Governor Ron DeSantis used the phrase on social media regarding iguanas and proposed reviving the Florida State Guard.
Public Backlash
Social media users criticized the phrase as a racist dog whistle with historical ties to slavery and state rights.
“This is on the back of the new florida drivers license, it’s a racist dog whistle first used in the 1800’s”
The essence
Florida's new driver's license featuring 'Let Us Alone' is criticized for racist connotations linked to historical slavery.
