This bill prohibits the teaching of certain concepts that are implicated by educational conversations about history and racial inequality. It also calls for the impartial discussion of “controversial aspects of history” and historical oppression. It requires that library material be "age-appropriate." It prohibits mandatory gender or sexual diversity training.
We oppose this bill because:
- The prohibited concepts are vague. It is impossible for teachers to know which lessons, language, or materials might be prohibited.
- Librarians are trained educators who already select material that is evaluated according to their professional protocol. This is an unnecessary provision that will invite further, radical attacks on librarians.
- Students are diverse. District and school administrators should have the autonomy to create trainings that ensure members of a school community are treating each other with respect.
