Miami-Dade County students joined their peers from across Florida in a statewide rally against Governor Ron DeSantis' recent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The protest was organized by Walkout 2 Learn, a group of Florida student activists comprised of high school and college students advocating for educational equity and social justice.
The State Board of Education recently agreed to an expansion of what LGBTQ+ activists have dubbed the "don't say gay" law, which bans classroom teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity in all grades. This decision follows the passage of several bills by the Florida House of Representatives concerning gender-transition treatments, bathroom rules, and restrictions on children attending drag shows.
Maria Gonzalez, a senior at Miami Senior High School who participated in the rally said: “We stand united today to fight against discrimination that affects our fellow classmates. We can't afford to keep silent while these unjust policies harm our education system."
Walkout 2 Learn's efforts have garnered widespread attention as they continue to organize protests throughout the state. Their message is clear: students will not tolerate discriminatory practices within their schools or communities.
Elijah Thompson, a college student activist partaking in this movement explained: "This isn’t just about one bill; it’s about ensuring that every single student feels safe and welcome in their learning environment.”
Governor DeSantis has faced backlash both locally and nationally for his support of these controversial measures. Critics argue that such policies marginalize vulnerable youth populations already struggling with societal prejudice.
Dr. Patricia Smith-McDonald, an expert in child psychology commented on the impact of these laws saying: "These types of regulations only serve to further stigmatize young people grappling with issues related to their identity. It is critical that we create inclusive spaces where all individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear or judgment."
As more students join Walkout 2 Learn's efforts, it remains to be seen whether their activism will result in concrete policy changes. For now, young activists like Maria Gonzalez and Elijah Thompson are committed to making their voices heard and fighting for a more inclusive future.
"We won't back down," said Gonzalez. "Our generation has a responsibility to protect the rights of everyone in our community—no matter who they love or how they identify."