A school assembly took place at Don Lugo High School in Chino, California, where over 300 individuals convened to discuss a policy centered around informing parents when their child comes out as transgender – a policy that could put the children of transphobes in serious danger.
The Dangerous Policy Was Approved
Taking center stage was Tony Thurmond, the Superintendent of California State Schools, who ardently opposed the policy. It led to a clash with Sonja Shaw – the president of the school board. Amidst heightened emotions, the board ultimately voted 4-1 to introduce the notification policy, eliciting a mix of cheers and expressions of disagreement from the audience.
The Very Real Risks
As the meeting unfolded, Thurmond vehemently criticized the proposal and voiced concerns about potential risks faced by transgender students with anti-trans parents. The policy in question mandates that schools must notify parents within three days if a child openly identifies as transgender.
Thurmond Was Deeply Passionate
Within the policy’s framework, students identifying as transgender are defined as those wishing to alter their name and pronouns and access gender-specific sports, restrooms, or changing areas that align with their gender identity. In the meeting, Superintendent Thurmond’s designated speaking time elapsed. However, his determination to express his concerns was unwavering, which led to a confrontation with Sonja Shaw.
Shaw Was Frustrated
Tensions escalated, with Thurmond audibly interjecting Shaw, who requested he return to his seat. Nevertheless, he continued articulating his stance and his supporters cheered when he resumed his seat. Exasperated by the interruptions, Shaw criticized Thurmond for his role in intensifying the discourse surrounding transgender students. She also accused him of endorsing her opponent during a previous school board election.
The Issue Is Controversial
The issue of transgender minors was a controversial one among parents, with emotions running high on both sides. Some championed the parental notification policy on the grounds that parental involvement is essential. On the other hand, some vehemently opposed it, fearing potential harm to vulnerable transgender students.
Online Commenters Were Divided
The story was shared across social media and online commenters were divided. “There is a reason these kids aren’t out to their parents. Schools are supposed to be a safe space for everyone,” one person wrote. “They know this and they don’t care. Better yet, they know it and they revel in trans kids being potentially harmed by their parents. The Republican Party is worse than the Westboro Baptist Church,” a second individual replied.
Teachers Shared Their Thoughts
Among the plethora of online commenters giving their opinions, teachers shared their thoughts on the situation. “I had a lot of kids come out to me as a teacher. Many [had] extremely religious parents and needed a ‘safe’ adult. It’s horrible to think this is being taken away from them.”
Most People Were Appalled
Others discussed the immense danger the policy could cause. “It puts them in literal danger. I don’t see how [any teacher] with a conscience could tell their parents,” one person wrote. “This is so unbelievably dangerous. Do they want these kids to be beaten and disowned? Actually, forget I asked. Of course they do.”
A Few Supported the Policy
Despite the outrage, some online commenters actually supported the policy. “It’s the parent’s right to know. That way they can decide the best course of action,” one person wrote. “What? ‘The best course of action?’ What are you implying?” another individual hit back.
Others Discussed Religion
Some online commenters discussed the role religion may have played in the introduction of the policy. “Sounds like the result of Christian love. There’s no hate like a Christian’s love,” one person wrote. “Ugh, I’m so sick of stupid Christian views being forced onto everyone,” another individual said.
Schools Are for Teaching, Not Parenting
Some commenters said that if a child wanted a parent to know about their trans identity, they would tell them themself. One person wrote: “If a parent has such a poor relationship with their child that the child feels it necessary to not tell them if they are part of that community, that’s the parent’s problem. The school is to teach the child, not parent them.”
A Call to Action
Some were so appalled that they called for investigations to be initiated. “Looks like it’s time to prosecute those bringing about these rules in these school districts and open up an investigation into the fascist groups behind it to see if they are involved in more criminal activities.”
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