Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wants to ban the teaching of subjects related to sexual orientation or gender identity at all grade levels, expanding a highly controversial law that currently only applies to elementary schools.
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His administration’s proposal, which does not require the approval of the Florida Legislature, will be put to the vote by the state Board of Education on April 19 and has already been approved by local education officials.
If passed, the “intentional” teaching of these subjects from kindergarten through high school will be banned.
It would extend the reach of a 2022 law dubbed “don’t say gay” by its critics. Strongly criticized by Democrats and LGBT+ rights activists, the text sparked a nationwide controversy.
Gov. Ron DeSantis, a new far-right strongman, is considered a likely contender for the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election, although he has yet to formalize his candidacy.
The Republican runs a very conservative policy, especially when it comes to morality. He pays particular attention to the subjects and books studied in schools that he accuses of indoctrinating students.
His administration’s new proposal was immediately denounced by the White House and LGBT+ rights groups.
“Make no mistake: This is part of a worrying and dangerous trend we are seeing across the country with anti-LGBTQI+ and anti-trans laws,” said US Presidential spokeswoman Karine Jean Pierre.
“That has been the goal from the start: widespread censorship and book bans targeting LGBT+ people to serve his presidential ambitions,” Equality Florida said on Twitter.
Schools, mirrors of a deeply divided America, are the scene of very political debates about teaching racism, gender issues or sexuality.
This proposal is also part of a national conservative offensive on LGBT+ issues.
In early March, Tennessee became the first US state to enact laws against drag queen shows in public places and referred to the protection of children from overly sexualized depictions.