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Don't Say LGBTQ+
Florida has signed "Don't Say LGBTQ+" into law.
Here's what the law is, what it does, and how PRISM is fighting back.
What is "Don't Say LGBTQ+"?
The Don't Say LGBTQ+ Law, or the Parental Rights in Education Act (HB 1557), bans classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in certain grade levels or in a specified manner. What began as a ban in K-3rd grade was then expanded to K-8 with the passage of HB 1069 last year. However, the biggest effect of the bill lies in its vague and ambiguous language- and that’s by design. Many teachers and school staff felt it was best to fully avoid the conversation than to risk accidentally violating the law.
The Settlement
In March of this year, a legal settlement clarified what restrictions are imposed by the Don't Say LGBTQ+ Law. Here's what that included:
LGBTQ+ in the Classroom
Students and teachers can now discuss LGBTQ+ issues. However, teachers cannot provide lessons or instruction on gender or sexual orientation.
References to LGBTQ+ people, relationships, and families are allowed, and students can discuss LGBTQ+ issues and history in school assignments.
Representation
LGBTQ+ teachers are also allowed to display pictures of their same-sex spouses, and teachers can keep up safe space signage and stickers to show support (including pride flags).
Books Back on Shelves
This agreement clarified that books featuring LGBTQ+ characters can be accessible in school libraries. Though they cannot be studied in the classroom as part of a lesson on gender identity and sexual orientation, the books are now accessible to students.
LGBTQ+ Student Organizations
GSAs are protected, providing students with essential support and advocacy spaces. Additionally, participation in and support of LGBTQ+ student clubs and cultural presentations remain unaffected.
Responding to supporters of the bill:
It can be exhausting to fight Internet trolls on this left and right, so we've got you covered. PRISM has broken down all of the myths that have been thrown around to support this harmful piece of legislation. Don’t worry, our sources are cited.
You can also catch these as one, complete video on our TikTok page.
Join us in fighting back.
Just because the law has passed doesn't mean there aren't ways to fight back. Keep an eye on our Upcoming Events, because we regularly plan protests and speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation during school board meetings.