The investigations will determine if LGBTQ+ content, which the department describes as 'sexual orientation and gender ideology (SOGI) content', is included in any classes for grades pre-K-12 and if the schools have notified parents of their right to opt their children out. Further to this, the DOJ investigation will assess whether the three school districts restrict access to single-sex spaces based on 'biological sex'.
A Lexington father is suing the town's school district and some of its leaders, alleging they stonewalled his attempts to excuse his kindergartener from lessons featuring LGBTQ themes that conflict with his Christian values. The parent, referred to as "Alan L." in the Oct. 17 complaint, specifically pointed to picture books depicting same-sex couples and their children - classroom instruction he says is "unmistakably normative and contradicts his family's faith by normalizing and celebrating LGBTQ relationships and identities."
Participants gathered beneath The Castro's historic marquee. After an entertaining set by Marks, emcee Sister Roma began the event and explained that the Castro Street Cam, which began in 2017, is an internet-based LGBTQ+ educational service that makes it possible for viewers, located anywhere globally, to virtually visit Castro Street and experience the vibrant neighborhood. Sister Roma introduced Cliff's Variety's Terry Asten Bennett, who used an oversized pair of scissors to clip a bright orange ribbon stretched down the sidewalk under the marquee.
The Supreme Court recently ruled that a Maryland school district must allow parents to opt their children out of instruction relating to LGBTQ+ identities, but only a minuscule number of families have actually done so. Data from the Montgomery County School District, the largest in the state, shows that only 58 opt-out requests from 43 families have been submitted on religious grounds. With 160,000 students in the district, that means a measly 0.03% will be removed from the classroom when certain topics are discussed.
