Protesters rally in downtown Raleigh against so called 'Parents' Bill of Rights'
There were renewed calls Monday to keep the so-called "Parents' Bill of Rights" legislation from further advancement.
Protestors gathered to rally against what they’re calling North Carolina's version of Florida's "Don’t Say Gay bill."
Legislators didn’t meet today, but that didn’t stop demonstrators from making their voices heard. Yet some supporters said the bill is necessary and a safeguard for all students.
"Protect LGBTQIA youth," read one of the many handmade signs seen in downtown Raleigh.
Protestors gathered to take a stand against House Bill 755.
Taylor Corden is a former teacher of two years. While no longer in the classroom, she uses her time to spread awareness.
"Bills like this are not helping our schools," said Corden. "I resigned because I got burnt out, and a huge part of that reason was legislation like HB 755, which isn’t doing much to helping our students."
HB 755 would ban teachings of sexual orientation or gender identity from the curriculum for kindergarten through third grade.
It would also require schools to notify parents if any student, regardless of grade, begins to question their gender identity in school—such as if a student asks to use a different name or pronoun to describe themselves.
Tami Fitzgerald, a supporter of the bill, said it establishes a better partnership between schools and parents.
"We applaud legislators for taking up the bill and we are looking forward to the house taking up the bill," said Fitzgerald. "This bill is about establishing the rights that parents already have and thought they had by codifying them into state law."
Opponents were willing to take risks in the classroom, out of love and support for their students if HB 755 passes.
"We will take the fine. We will take whatever punishment we get," said Corden. "I know a lot of other educators who were prepared to do that."
Governor Cooper has plans to veto the bill if it reaches his desk.
