Alabama is looking into banning teacher-led discussions on gender identity in public schools, deeming them “not age-appropriate.” If the legislation goes through, it could also restrict the display of pride flags in the state’s public schools. The current law in Alabama limits these discussions up to fifth grade but may extend the restrictions to all K-12 grades.
An amendment was proposed to prevent school staff from displaying flags or symbols related to sexual or gender identity on school property. The bill has passed the Alabama House Education Policy Committee and is moving to the full Alabama House of Representatives.
Some lawmakers criticized the bill. Rep. Barbara Drummond from Mobile, a Democrat, expressed concerns that the legislation could drive people away from Alabama rather than attract them, while House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels described the measure as “almost like bullying.”
The term “Don’t Say Gay” was initially linked to Florida’s Parental Rights in Education legislation, which prohibits discussions on sexual orientation or gender identity in classrooms. Florida’s Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has repeatedly addressed what he views as the misrepresentation of the bill by many in the mainstream media.