It is a new age indeed for the LGBTQ community!
LGBTQ history will now be taught at public schools in Illinois.
The law, signed by Pritzker last week, mandates that the history curriculum in schools across the state include lessons talking on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, according to the Chicago Tribune.
“In public schools only, the teaching of history shall include a study of the roles and contributions of…”
“…lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the history of this country and this State,” the bill states.
According to CNN, the curriculum will include the history of the nation’s first gay rights organization.
Also, the Society for Human Rights, being formed in 1924 in Chicago, and Sally Ride, the first US woman in space, who was a lesbian.
“One of the best ways to overcome intolerance is through education and exposure to different people and viewpoints,” State Sen. Heather Steans said. “An inclusive curriculum will not only teach an accurate version of history but also promote acceptance of the LGBTQ community.”
In a statement, Victor Salvo, executive director of the Chicago-based Legacy Project, which fosters an appreciation for the contributions of LGBTQ individuals, called the new legislation life-saving.
“To deny a child information that could give them hope, that could help them feel less alone, that could help them feel like they mattered…”
“…while at the same time condemning them to hearing bigoted slurs in the hallways of their schools…”
“…is a cruelty that every feeling adult has a responsibility to stop,” he said.
The bill will officially go into effect in July 2020.
We would like to hear everyone’s perspective. Let us know your opinions on this new bill!
Featured Image Credit: Hollywood unlocked
