The LGBTQI+ community and advocates rallied on the University of Miami campus Thursday afternoon to protest the Parents’ Rights in Education bill currently making its way through the Florida legislature.
If the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill is passed into law, it would forbid teachers of students from Pre-K through third grade from discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in class. It would give parents the right to sue schools.
Joe Recker, a student who helped set up the rally, said: “When we as a queer community come together and voice again the legislation, it has a huge impact.”
The crowd gathered on the part of campus called “The Rock,” where speakers raised concerns over the proposed bill.
Recker continued, “We know from countless studies that LGBTQI+ youth are at higher risk for suicide and don’t have supportive home environments or supportive houses of worship, so schools are their last safe haven.”
President Biden also took to Twitter this week to offer his support to the LGBTQI+ community.
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. I have your back, and my Administration will continue to fight for the protections and safety you deserve. https://t.co/OcAIMeVpHL
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 8, 2022
The bill nevertheless came a step closer to law this week, passing the state Senate’s education committee. In the next few days, Florida lawmakers will have to work out differences between House and Senate versions of the bill before it is sent to the governor for final approval.
