FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 8, 2022
CONTACT:
Fernanda Durand
214-402-0186
fernanda@communicationsshop.us
Calls on Department of Justice to Challenge the Law, if Signed by Republican Governor DeSantis
WASHINGTON — Hispanic Federation strongly condemns the passage of the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill by the Florida legislature today, and calls on the U.S. Department of Justice to challenge the law in federal court if it’s signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. HB 1557, better known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, is a transparent attempt by the Florida Legislature to censor the LGBTQ youth in Florida.
Frankie Miranda, President and CEO of Hispanic Federation, released the following statement.
"It’s unconscionable that in this day and age, the LGTBQ community has to fight a government-sanctioned denial of our rights and our very existence. The hateful “Don’t Say Gay” legislation brings up painful memories of a time in my childhood when I was bullied and abused at an early age for being gay. This bill does not protect children. Instead, it will make them even more vulnerable to abuse by ensuring our children are silenced and made invisible. Our schools must be a safe and inclusive space for all youth to discuss these topics, get accurate information, and receive support – not a place to render them invisible or deny their humanity. Separating children from the information they need and from seeking help and support increases isolation and misinformation and raises the risk of suicide. It is breathtaking that after the Pulse tragedy five years ago, where 49 people – nearly all LGBTQ and Latino – were massacred by a lone gunman, the state of Florida would seek to ban discussions around sexual orientation and gender identity in schools.
If Gov. DeSantis cares about all children, he will refuse to sign this bill. On the other hand, if he signs it, he will galvanize our LGBTQ communities and allies. We promise to fight this proposed law and protect LGTBQ children and young adults in Florida. Furthermore, we call on the Department of Justice to explore Title IX and other potential violations and commit to challenging the law if it’s signed. We will not stand by as the state of Florida abuses our children."
