The bill, referred to by some critics as “Don’t Say Gay,” was signed by DeSantis on Monday. It states that teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity is not allowed in kindergarten through grade 3, or in a way that is inappropriate for the age or development of students as determined by state standards.
If the policy is breached, it additionally provides parents with the choice to file a lawsuit against a school district. Advocates of the bill argue that it is intended to empower parents to decide when and how to address LGBTQ subjects with their children.
During a press conference prior to the event, DeSantis expressed his disapproval of teaching young children in kindergarten that “they can pursue any career they desire” when he signed the legislation.
He stated, “It’s not something that’s suitable for any location, but particularly not in Florida.”
The policy that insists on the idea of not labeling LGBTQ children as “Gay” comes under criticism from those who oppose this measure.
As part of initiatives to educate students about LGBTQ matters, advocates of the bill signing referred to the promotion of woke gender ideology as “sloganeering,” with DeSantis and other individuals assembling for this purpose.
DeSantis stays resolute despite the criticism
As per The Trevor Project, when these children are granted entry to environments that validate their gender identity, they document decreased instances of suicide endeavors. Research has indicated that LGBTQ adolescents already encounter elevated risks in terms of health and suicide compared to their cisgender or heterosexual counterparts.
The Trevor Project criticized the enactment of the legislation, asserting that it eliminates “LGBTQ identity, history, and culture — along with LGBTQ students themselves.”
The group also critiques the parental policy’s notification requirements, which require parents to be the first to be notified of any health or support services offered to their children in school. Those services deny the chance to support or provide any health services to kids, on behalf of their children.
Project Trevor states that the inclusion of vague parental notification requirements could potentially undermine support for LGBTQ students in schools, as it could effectively require teachers to disclose students’ LGBTQ identities without the consent of their legal guardians, regardless of whether they are supportive or not.
I want to remind you that it is vital for the youth LGBTQ in Florida and across the country to have social support to prevent suicide. I am inspired by the outpouring of support for LGBTQ students from their peers, celebrities, teachers, and parents. However, I am saddened to see this harmful bill being signed into law, as stated by Amit Paley, the Executive Director & CEO of The Trevor Project.
Prior to the enactment of the bill, critics, including The Walt Disney Company, heavily criticized Florida lawmakers for the legislation.
On Monday, a spokesperson declared in a statement to the media that the organization wants the legislation to be rendered null and void by the courts.
The statement stated that our company is committed to supporting national and state organizations that are striving to achieve the repeal of this law, whether through legislative action or judicial invalidation. This law, also referred to as the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, should never have been signed into law or approved, and it is our objective to ensure its repeal.
The legislation will be implemented on July 1. This is where I remain. I am not surrendering. “I am indifferent to Hollywood’s opinions. I am indifferent to the opinions of major corporations,” DeSantis remained resolute despite facing criticism.
The law was also the subject of jokes at Sunday night’s Academy Awards event.