According to AP News, the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill was enacted by Florida’s Republican-led legislature today. The contentious bill was enacted to prohibit the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity.
School teachings are prohibited for pupils in kindergarten through third grade under this law. The bill is now on its way to Republican Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk.
“Classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity by school officials or third parties may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally acceptable for students under state standards,” the measure adds.
Parents have rights under the bill, and reports indicate that they may be able to sue school systems in Florida if they are violated.
LGBTQ advocates, students, national Democrats, the White House, and the entertainment industry have all spoken out against the law since it was introduced. Representative Carlos G. Smith, a Democrat and LGBTQ activist, has spoken out against the bill.
“This bill has been utilized to marginalize and persecute LGTBQ people since its introduction,” he stated. “Sends a terrible message to our students that there is something wrong with LGBTQ people, that there is something so hazardous or inappropriate about us that we must be prohibited and censored from the classroom,” Rep. Smith added.
Hundreds of kids and advocates protested the bill in committee rooms across the state. Students utilized their voices today, with protests and student walkouts taking place. While the bill is not yet official, it will take effect on July 1st if it is signed into law.
Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida is in favor of the bill. He hasn’t said whether he will sign it, though. Leave a comment with your opinion on the bill, roommates.
