Journalism I student Peter Atchley stands out in a crowd. After the passing of the Parental Rights in Education Bill in the Florida House of Representatives in March, Atchley is determined to embrace his authentic self despite being faced with hate and adversity from society. “Endorsed by 33 Republican representatives, this legislation would ban the teaching of LGBTQ+ sexual education programs, and LGBTQ+ literature, as well as the act of affirming a student’s self-identified gender in government-funded programs, like Clarke Central High School,” Atchley wrote. Illustration by Antonio Starks
Journalism I student Peter Atchley shares how the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill would affect LGBTQ+ education and the ways that it relates to him personally.
In March of 2022, the Florida House of Representatives introduced the Parental Rights in Education Bill, also known as the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill. Endorsed by 33 Republican representatives, this legislation would ban the teaching of LGBTQ+ sexual education programs and LGBTQ+ literature, as well as the act of affirming a student’s self-identified gender in government-funded programs and schools like Clarke Central High School. The “Don’t Say Gay’’ Bill paints the LGBTQ+ community in a negative light affecting how they are viewed and making them feel like I felt as a kid.
When I was younger, I went through a time when I told people my favorite color was green because I thought it was a “normal boy” color, even though I liked purple. When I was a little older, I would play with toys that were typically meant for girls, such as Polly Pockets, and I went so far as to hide my toys when my friends would come over.
Signing the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill into action would make other children feel like I did. By not passing the bill, young children won’t go through what I did. They will be taught to live as themselves and reach confidence much faster.
Signing the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill into action would make other children feel like I did. By not passing the bill, young children won’t go through what I did.
As I got older, I realized that not hiding from people allowed my confidence to grow and I began to realize that I was worthy. For me, confidence is standing tall and proud. I speak how I want to speak and I refuse to do otherwise.
While some people may think that the “Don’t Say Gay’’ Bill only relates to Florida, it’s still important for Georgia parents, guardians and children to become educated on the implications and impacts of the “Don’t Say Gay Bill.” That way, it becomes easier to approach and give better support to the LGBTQ+ community and students like me.
While it can feel like bringing about change is difficult, staying confident and speaking up are crucial to being heard. I will not let them see me as unconfident, I’m staying confident.
