AFT Official on FAMU Hire: ‘They’re Trying to Run our Minds’

May 28, 2025

Fedrick C. Ingram, secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Teachers, has strongly criticized Florida A&M University's hiring of Marva Johnson as a political strategy to control Black institutions. Ingram argues that Johnson, a DeSantis ally appointed despite protests, lacks qualifications having never served as an educator or in higher education administration.

Who is affected

Florida A&M University students and alumni
The broader HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) community
Black leadership development institutions
The 1.8 million educators and professionals represented by the American Federation of Teachers
Future generations of Black students

What action is being taken

Thousands are signing a petition calling for the FAMU board to reverse Johnson's appointment
Ingram is publicly speaking out and criticizing the appointment
Ingram is urging alumni and community members to "keep a watchful eye and keep a loud voice going"
The American Federation of Teachers is raising awareness about political interference in educational institutions

Why it matters

According to Ingram, this appointment represents political interference in educational institutions that have historically developed Black leadership. He views it as part of a broader effort to "control institutions that shape how Black students see the world and see themselves" and to "eradicate history" through revisionist approaches. The appointment raises concerns about academic independence at HBCUs and signals what Ingram describes as a calculated political strategy to influence future generations' thinking.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint