Many in the LGBTQ+ Community are under the very wrong impression that these laws only affect the trans community. But in truth “sexual orientation” pertains to us all.

On May 5th, 2023, the Governor of Indiana, Eric Holcomb, signed into law a controversial bill dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. This bill prohibits public school teachers from discussing sexual orientation or gender identity with their students, except when such discussions are directly related to the curriculum. The bill has drawn fierce criticism from LGBTQ+ activists, who say it will further marginalize LGBTQ+ students and deprive them of critical support and resources.

The bill, which was introduced by Republican lawmakers, passed both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly earlier this year. Its supporters argue that it is necessary to protect children from exposure to controversial topics that are best discussed by parents or guardians. They also claim that discussions of sexual orientation or gender identity are not age-appropriate for young students.

However, opponents of the bill say that it sends a harmful message to LGBTQ+ students, who may already feel isolated and unsupported in school. Many argue that discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity are crucial to promoting acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ individuals, and that banning such discussions will only exacerbate existing prejudices and discrimination.

The “Don’t Say Gay” bill has been compared to similar legislation in other states, such as Tennessee’s infamous “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which was signed into law in 2011. That law prohibited public school teachers from discussing homosexuality in any context, including when responding to questions from students. It was eventually repealed in 2019, after years of protests and legal challenges.

Governor Holcomb, however, has defended his decision to sign the bill, saying that it is consistent with his conservative values and his belief in parental rights. In a statement released after signing the bill, Holcomb said, “This legislation is about protecting the rights of parents to direct the education and upbringing of their children. It is not about discriminating against any individual or group.”

While supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect children from exposure to controversial topics, opponents say that discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity are crucial to promoting acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ individuals.

This is not just a “trans” problem.