Staff Reports
The Sheboygan South High School District in Wisconsin has been criticized for exhibiting a range of flags related to gender identity and sexual orientation in their library. The Daily Caller News Foundation obtained documents indicating that the flags, including those representing gender fluidity, lesbian pride, LGBTQ pride, bisexuality, and queer people of color, were endorsed by teachers and students in the district. These flags were displayed as part of the district's observance of the yearly "Day of Silence Activity," which is intended to raise awareness about the challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ community. Students refrain from speaking throughout the day to commemorate this occasion.
DAY of silence for LGBTQIA+ observed in conservative Sheboygan, WI Schools?
“Every year in Spring, we host a Day of Silence Activity where members of our Gay Straight Alliance (now called Gender Sexuality Alliance) and any other interested students participate by remaining… pic.twitter.com/DIEaQdYADv
— Scarlett Johnson (@scarlett4kids) March 10, 2023
Conservative parents in the area have expressed their displeasure over the flag exhibit, and Scarlett Johnson, who leads the Ozaukee, Wisconsin chapter of Moms for Liberty, has reported to the DCNF that her organization receives regular tips about such incidents occurring across the country. According to Johnson, this trend must be challenged because school librarians and the administrators who support them should not view themselves as subversive forces within the school. Johnson's concerns are valid, as schools should not endorse any specific political or social ideology, especially one that opposes the beliefs of a significant portion of the community's parents.
? EXCLUSIVE? via @reaganreese_
Wisconsin School District Hangs Pride, Trans Flags For ‘Day Of Silence’ Activity
READ MORE: https://t.co/tsEnTdrEg5
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) March 14, 2023
GLSEN, an organization dedicated to establishing inclusive spaces for LGBTQ students, sponsors the Day of Silence, a nationwide student-led protest. Although it is praiseworthy that schools are striving to create a secure and accepting atmosphere for all pupils, it is unsuitable for them to promote a particular political ideology. Additionally, the decision to remove three books from the high school library following criticism over their alleged "pornographic" and "disturbing" content is concerning. This action indicates that the school district is attempting to advance an agenda that does not align with the beliefs of numerous parents in the community.
Parents must stay informed about their children's school activities and take necessary steps if they believe that their beliefs are being threatened. Schools should be a space where students can expand their knowledge and develop without encountering any specific political or social ideology. It is not tolerable for schools to advocate an agenda that opposes the values of a significant number of parents in the community.
