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COUSINS!

There is a new bill floating around Florida and not only has it been passed by the Florida Senate and House, it will also closely affect what children are taught in the classroom!

The “Don’t Say Gay” bill will limit what teachers are allowed to educate students about pertaining to sexual orientation and gender identity. As the legislation states, these lessons “may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.” 

According to ABC News, the bill will also allow parents to sue schools or teachers that engage in these topics.

The bill was passed by the Florida Senate in a 22-17 vote before it headed to the desk of Republican Governor Ron DeSantis.

Although Gov. DeSantis said to support the bill, there is no indication that he will sign the bill. But if passed, the bill will go into effect July 1. 

Many LGBTQ activists and advocates are against the bill and slammed the decision to move forward. 

“Let us be clear: should its vague language be interpreted in any way that causes harm to a single child, teacher, or family, we will lead legal action against the State of Florida to challenge this bigoted legislation,” said local LGBTQ advocacy group Equality Florida in a statement.

“Every LGBTQ young person deserves to attend a school that provides an inclusive, affirmative environment – not one that aims to erase their existence,” Amit Paley, CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project, an organization focused on suicide prevention among LGBTQ youth, said in a statement.

Paley adds, “We know that LGBTQ youth already face higher risk for bullying, depression, and suicide – and this bill will only add to the stigma that fuels these disparities.”

Cousins, what are your thoughts on this? Should we allow LGBTQ curricula in children’s schools?