(Miami) Ron DeSantis, Republican Governor of Florida, is seeking to ban the teaching of subjects related to sexual orientation or gender identity for all grade levels, which would expand a highly controversial law applying to hour only in primary school.
His administration’s proposal, which does not need to receive the approval of the Florida legislature, will be voted on by the state Board of Education on April 19, and has already been validated by the local authorities in charge. education.
PHOTO PHIL SEARS, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis
If passed, “intentional” teaching of these subjects will be banned from kindergarten through high school.
It would extend the reach of a law enacted in 2022, dubbed “Don’t say gay” by its critics. Strongly criticized by Democrats and activists for the rights of LGBTQ + people, the text had caused a national controversy.
Governor Ron DeSantis, a new strongman on the hard right, is seen as a likely contender for the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election, even if he has not yet formalized his candidacy.
The Republican leads a very conservative policy, particularly in matters of morals. He pays particular attention to the themes and books studied in schools, which he accuses of indoctrinating students.
His administration’s new proposal was immediately denounced by LGBTQ+ rights groups.
“That was the goal from the start: widespread censorship and the banning of books, targeting LGBT people to serve his presidential ambitions,” Equality Florida was indignant on Twitter.
Schools, mirrors of a deeply divided America, are the scene of very political confrontations over the teaching of racism, gender issues or sexuality.
This proposal is also part of a national conservative offensive on LGBTQ+ issues.
At the beginning of March, Tennessee became the first American state to legislate against drag queen shows in public places, citing the protection of children against representations deemed too sexualized.