On February 8th, the Florida Senate Education Committee passed a bill that prevents the discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms of children aged three to third grade. Many say that the “Parental Rights in Education” bill, labeled the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by its opposition, would effectively erase the history, literature, and vital health information about LGBTQI+ persons.
Primarily conservative Floridians in support of this bill see it as a positive that conversations around the matter of sexual orientation and gender identity are left absent from the classrooms. They believe these conversations bar parents from their right to discuss these sensitive topics with their own children. Their fear is that if children learn about sexual orientation and gender identity from school, it may influence the student’s views or opinions on the matter. While this amendment has now been dropped, the bill originally proposed that all discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity including those with student services, like counseling would require the teacher or counsoler to report all information to the parents of the child. This would have included the students “mental, emotional or physical health or well-being.” The only information that would be confidential is such information that may result in abuse. If the school district does not adhere to these principles, then parents are liable to sue.
It seems that a majority of Floridian politicians are in support of this bill. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis voiced his disdain for teachers educating students on gender identity and sexual orientation. He recalled teachers telling children things like, “Do not worry, do not pick your gender yet,” and keeping lessons about LGBTQI+ persons secretive from parents. DeSantis suggested that classrooms need to be focused on subjects such as history and science, and teaching kids to read and write. He went on to say that a more thorough understanding of the U.S. Constitution, and civics is needed in U.S. classrooms, a statement which he disclosed to reporters at a Miami event on February 7th.
To those opposed, the reality of this bill is that it endangers the lives of LGBTQI+ youth. If not in schools, then what safe space remains for those wondering about their gender identity and sexual orientation, especially when they cannot safely express themselves at home? Many share the opinion that the bill is unethical and constricting freedoms in America. President Joe Biden has been very vocal on his disdain for this Florida bill.
“I want every member of the LGBTQI+ community — especially the kids who will be impacted by this hateful bill — to know that you are loved and accepted just as you are…” Biden said in a Twitter message.
Opponents of the bill warn that it will become a stepping stone towards further discrimination of any youth questioning their gender identity or sexual orientation. The worry is that more suicides and bullying will arise in an already marginalized community.
Claremont High School students need not worry about this bill. However, that does not stop students from vocalizing their support or disdain for Florida’s lawmaking.
Junior Alex Chang is up in arms about the “Don’t Say Gay Bill” as he fears for its damaging impact on youth.
“I do not think this bill should be passed because it promotes the idea that sex and sexuality are taboo subjects,” Chang said. “Such topics of conversation should be accepted earlier in children’s lives so they can get a better understanding of the world in the future. Children should not be disciplined for wanting to know more about themselves and the world around them.”
Claremont High School does hold some viewpoints that support this bill, however.
This senior chose to stay anonymous when making a comment on the bill.
“Honestly, I feel like Florida is right for introducing this bill. I get the negatives but it’ll work to direct classrooms in a more stable way that’ll focus on U.S. History and lessons that matter to guide children to learn more about the country they live in,” the anonymous senior said.
It is no doubt that this bill will have a polarizing effect on not only Florida but the entirety of the U.S. as well. Regardless of whether more states follow suit or if Florida remains the only state with this law, it will be looked upon as something to never repeat again…or a great stepping stone for the future of the country. Whatever it may be, it is no doubt that it endangers the lives of LGBTQI+ youth.