Have you heard about the survey on LGBTQ+ parents in Florida? Well, it turns out that more than half of them have thought about leaving the state, and one in six has already made plans to do so. Sounds like a bit of a moving problem, huh?
One parent had this to say, “It is absolutely terrifying living in Florida and it has gotten progressively worse. We have been discriminated against and verbally attacked in the past in Florida. Now that we have kids, we are much more concerned about our safety and the well-being of our kids.” Florida man, can you not?
The state’s decision to bar sexual orientation/gender identity instruction in K-3 is only making matters worse. But hey, who needs education, right? Not like it’s important or anything.
And to top it all off, Florida’s Voice, a right-leaning organization, adding sarcastic scare quotes, tweeted out its summary: “Survey finds majority of ‘queer parents’ consider leaving Florida because of law barring sexual orientation/gender identity instruction in K-3.” Because clearly, making fun of people’s concerns is the way to go.
Unfortunately, the legislation was signed into law by Florida’s very own Governor, Ron DeSantis (R), who seems to be more inclined towards the Republican presidential nominating contest in 2024. If only he could focus on the present problems and not drive LGBTQ+ parents out of the state, maybe Florida would stand a chance?
Add to that, the country’s older population seem to have different opinions as compared to their younger counterparts. The younger generation is more likely to be gay or trans and vote for Democrats. For an older, Whiter, and more Republican electorate, targeting LGBTQ+ Americans seems like a good idea to gain some votes. But doesn’t this seem a bit too desperate?
Right-wing activist groups have been targeting transgender Americans like it’s their full-time job. Even Bud Light was not spared! Their recent marketing campaign featured trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney and received quite the backlash. It seems like people just can’t keep their noses out of other people’s lives.
And to make matters worse, the Republican-controlled House is considering legislation that would target sports programs that allow “men” to participate in sports programs designed for women or girls. Apparently, sex should be “recognized based solely on a person’s reproductive biology and genetics at birth.” Are we living in the dark ages again?
It seems like the Republican Party needs to re-evaluate their priorities. LGBTQ+ Americans make up a relatively small part of the population, but focusing on them for political gains is not worth the long-term consequences. 1 in 5 members of Gen Z identify as LGBT, and they are not going to forget how they were treated. So, maybe focus on real problems and not targeting a minority group? Just a thought.
Serious News: washingtonpost