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- Critics are urging The Walt Disney Company to denounce Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
- The legislation would prohibit discussions of sexuality and gender in classrooms.
- Disney has steered clear of publically speaking out on the matter.
Bicoastal protests by LGBTQ+ rights advocates outside theme parks in California and Florida hoped to persuade The Walt Disney Company to publically denounce legislation that would prohibit the discussion of sexuality and gender in classrooms, but the company has so far rejected doing so, The Wrap reported.
Formally known as the Parental Rights in Education bill, the Florida legislation — the “Don’t Say Gay” bill to critics — would bar talk in “primary grade levels” about sex and gender, while encouraging parents to sue schools or teachers that address the topic. It has currently being considered in the state senate after passing out of the state house.
In a statement, Disney sidestepped the legislation.
“We understand how important this issue is to our LGBTQ+ employees and many others,” the company said in a statement. “For nearly a century, Disney has been a unifying force that brings people together. We are determined that it remains a place where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”
“The biggest impact we can have in creating a more inclusive world is through the inspiring content we produce, the welcoming culture we create here and the diverse community organizations we support, including those representing the LGBTQ+ community,” the company added.
Michael Kahane, a demonstrator and member of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, told Orlando television outlet WKMG that he was unhappy with the company’s position.
“To turn your back on your guests and your employees because someone doesn’t think they should be able to talk about sexual orientation or get guidance or counseling… is hate speech,” he said.
President Joe Biden has denounced the bill.
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