As Black and African American students who have worked to excel academically and earn National College Board Recognition Awards, we are deeply disappointed that this achievement does not qualify us for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship. This scholarship program provides full tuition at public universities in Florida based on high school academic achievement. However, currently, only the Hispanic/Latino Recognition Award is recognized as a qualifier for this scholarship. This excludes those who have earned the Black/African American or Indigenous/Native Recognition Award.

This discrepancy is not only unfair but also undermines the hard work of many students like myself who have achieved recognition from the College Board. It sends a message that our achievements are less valuable or less deserving of support than those of our Hispanic/Latino peers.

The state of Florida prides itself on its diverse population and commitment to equal opportunity in education. Yet this policy contradicts these values by excluding certain groups from accessing vital financial aid based on their ethnic background.

We believe it's time for change. We call upon our legislators to push the bill making all National College Board Recognition Awards - including Black/African American and Indigenous/Native - eligible qualifiers for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program. This would ensure that all students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance are given equal opportunities to pursue higher education without financial burden.

Join us in pushing for fairness and equality in educational opportunities in Florida by signing this petition today!