Don't Say Gay!!!!! (At Least Not In Grade And Middle Schools In TN)

You know what I don't understand? I don't understand why the Tennessee Senate has passed a bill that would forbid public school teachers and students in grades kindergarten through eight from discussing the fact that some people are gay. Under the proposal approved 20-10 on Friday, any instruction or materials at a public elementary or middle school will be "limited exclusively to age-appropriate natural human reproduction science." Republican (of course) Senate sponsor Stacey Campfield of Knoxville says "homosexuals don't naturally reproduce." Oddly, neither do those of us like me who have been voluntarily sterilized, but, alas, I digress.

Don’t' Say "Gay" In TN Grade and Middle Schools

Opponents have derided the measure at the "don't say gay bill". They say it is unfair to children of gay parents and could lead to more bullying. Supporters say it is intended to give teachers clear guidance for dealing with younger children on a potentially explosive topic.

The House version of the bill has, thankfully, been withdrawn, but its sponsor promises to revive it next session if the Senate version passes again.

Okay, ladies and gentlemen, where do I start?

First things first, there are gay people all over the world. They have been here for hundreds of thousands of years. That is a simple fact. Why would we not want to teach our children, even younger children, facts? There are also people of different races, religions, national origins, and creeds. Perhaps Sen. Campfield would prefer the children of Tennessee not be taught this either.

Second, why are lawmakers at the state level obsessed with gay folks? This kind of thing goes on nonstop in my home state of Indiana as well. Why don't they expend their time and money with improving American students’ math and science scores and abilities? Am I the only one who sees a connection between a lack of achievement in these critical areas and a misguided focus on gay people, sagging pants, and wanting religion (their religion, of course) taught in public schools?

Lastly, at least for now, would these esteemed lawmakers efforts not be better directed at creating jobs in their home states and/or districts versus forbidding teachers and students (AND STUDENTS) from talking about gay people? Which is more important? Economic development or more state sponsored discrimination?

Think about this for a moment. If an inquisitive student asks his or her favorite teacher about why Little Johnny has two mommies, how is the teacher supposed to react under this proposed law?

Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.