Stop HB 616, Ohio’s shameful “Don’t Say Gay, Don’t Mention Race” bill

Ohio lawmakers have introduced legislation combining an even broader curriculum ban than in HB 327 with some of the worst aspects of Florida’s infamous “Don’t Say Gay” law. House Bill 616 would restrict or outright ban any mention of sexual orientation or gender identity in grades K-12. It would also restrict the teaching of several poorly defined “divisive concepts” including “diversity, equity, and inclusion learning outcomes,” and “any other concept that the state board of education defines as divisive or inherently racist.”

At a time when LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk for mental health illness and suicide, and curriculum bans are being introduced all over the country, we are doing everything we can to stop HB 616. Together, we will show young LGBTQ+ Ohioans that they belong and they are valued. It is imperative that our classrooms remain a welcoming space where teachers and students can have honest conversations about our history in the context of race and identity.

TAKE ACTION: contact the members of the House State and Local Government Committee and urge them to STOP HB 616 from advancing.

Message Recipients:
Members of Ohio House State and Local Government Committee

Students walking with backpack towards school

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Dear Ohio Representative

I respectfully urge you to vote NO on House Bill 616 to stand firm against attacks on LGBTQ+ youth and for honesty in education. I also ask that you oppose further consideration of this bill.

Message Body

Simply put, HB 616 represents unprecedented government censorship and overreach in our classrooms. The language of this bill puts a target on the backs of young LGBTQ Ohioans, who are more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience mental health issues and suicidal ideation. HB 616 is also incredibly vague in how it restricts teachers’ ability to teach about things like sexual orientation, gender identity, race, racism, diversity, and inclusion.

Kids deserve an honest education. They should be able to learn the good, the bad, and the ugly of our history. Teachers deserve the opportunity to provide that well-rounded education without having to fear retribution. Classrooms must be a place where these conversations can happen openly so that each student can learn without restriction.

This bill would not accomplish what it purports to – give parents more of a say in their kids’ education and ensure “both sides” of history are taught. In fact, it prioritizes the views of some over the views of others. HB 616 represents an unacceptable attack on free speech and on vulnerable LGBTQ youth.

For these reasons and more, I strongly urge you to vote no on HB 616 and oppose further consideration of the bill.

Sincerely,

[First Name] [Last Name]

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Stop HB 616, Ohio’s shameful “Don’t Say Gay, Don’t Mention Race” bill

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