The bill, which the supporters say reinforces parental rights, will now go to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for his signature…reports Asian Lite News
Apple CEO Tim Cook has expressed his concerns on a controversial education bill in Florida that reportedly targets the LGBTQ youths.
“As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply concerned about laws being enacted across the country, particularly those focused on our vulnerable youth. I stand with them and the families, loved ones, and allies who support them,” the Apple CEO tweeted.
Earlier this week, Florida’s Republican-controlled state legislature passed the Parental Rights in Education bill that forbids classroom discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity for many young students, according an NDTV report.
The bill, which the supporters say reinforces parental rights, will now go to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for his signature.
The bill, as reported, reads, “Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”
Critics of the bill, which is being referred to as the “don’t say gay” bill, fear that it will hurt the LGBTQ community.
Meanwhile in Texas, officials said they will investigate families of minors getting gender-affirming care. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has said that such treatments should be seen as child abuse, CNN reported.
In 2014, the Apple CEO publicly came out as gay saying, “I’m proud to be gay, and I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me.”
He said he made the decision to be open about his sexual orientation after hearing from children who were being bullied and abused and thinking of suicide.
Disney chief Bob Chapek has also joined the list of celebrities opposing the legislation, which is referred to by its critics as the “don’t say gay” bill, it was reported.
President Joe Biden also came out in strong opposition to the bill, it was reported.
