Earlier this week, a Florida Senate committee moved forward with legislation called the Parental Rights in Education bill. But critics are calling it the "Don't Say Gay" bill.
Why's that?
It would block districts from encouraging"classroom discussion" about sexual orientationor gender identity for kidsin elementary school. It could also apply to student services like counseling. The bill lets parents sue schools if they believe someone is violating the law. The purpose is to "reinforce the fundamental right" of parents to make decisions about their kids.
What are proponents saying?
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) — who gave it the thumbs up — said "parents must have a seat at the table" when it comes to what their children are learning. And that he doesn't approve of "injecting these concepts about choosing your gender."The bill's author says teachers should respond with "ask your mother."
How about opponents?
Critics called the legislation "dangerous," saying it will "stigmatize"and "isolate" LGBTQ+ kids. The Biden admin said it's "designed to attack" children who need the most support. It's another lesson plan that's getting pushback from local govs (see: critical race theory, banned books).
What about the kids?
Many are struggling. Study after study shows that LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk of mental health issues and even suicide. And advocates are concerned the legislation could prevent teachers from providing a "safe, inclusive" classroom.
What's next?
The legislation is making its way through Florida's state House and Senate. If the 'yeahs' outweigh the 'nays', it could go into effect as soon as July.
theSkimm
Recently, Republican state officials have been getting increasingly involved in school curricula. They see it as a way to take controversial or left-leaning topics out of the classroom back into parents' hands. Others see it as overstepping, silencing teachers, and alienating minorities.
Skimm More: Political fights are leaving state capitols and heading to classrooms. We break down the latest on book bans, teacher hotlines, and more on last week's episode of "Skimm This."
And Also...This
Where the masks are (mostly) coming off...
New York. Yesterday, NY, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts joined a wave of blue states ending mask mandates. Omicron has made its rounds but the average number of daily new cases is dropping. One poll shows that almost half of Americans are over the pandemic living and want to "learn to live" with the virus. It's an attitude that not everyone has been fortunate to have, with more than 900,000 people in the US killed to date. Now, Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) is letting the state's indoor mask mandate expire today…but not in classrooms. The state's going to examine its school policy after kids come back from winter break next month. Surprise: masks in schools are a topic of debate. Meanwhile, the CDC and other health officials are saying 'we're not there yet' and urging people to still mask up.
Shared experience: People all over the world are moving in the same direction. England signaled it's going to end COVID-19 restrictions — including the rule to self-isolate. It comes as Germany, Sweden, and Denmark are all already taking action.
Skimm More:Here's the latest on COVID-19 vaccines for kids under five.
Where doctors are prescribing fresh air...
Canada. Last month, the country launched a new initiative — PaRx — that allows docs to give their patients a new kind of prescription: a free annual pass to national parks. For those who also struggle with reading their doctor's handwriting, the general prescriptions recommend spending two hours a week outdoors. Research has long pointed to the mental and physical benefits of getting some vitamin D. Now, this is the first time that year-long passes under the program are available in Canada.
Where things are getting tense…
India. Yesterday, hundreds of students blocked roads to protest a hijab ban against Muslim students in the classroom. In recent months, some schools in India began banning students from wearing the hijab in classrooms, arguing it violated the school dress code. Muslim students protested. Last week, outlets reported that colleges and schools in the southern state Karnataka had told Muslim girls who wear the Islamic headscarf to go home. Now, some Hindu students are organizing counter-protests. The tensions have forced schools to close down for three days. And all of this has gotten attention from Nobel Prize-winner Malala Yousafzai, who asked Indian leaders to "stop the marginalization" of Muslim women.
Who's creating buzz at the Olympics…
Women. Yesterday, Chloe Kim made history as the first woman to win two Olympic gold medals in the halfpipe. Snowboarder Lindsey Jacobellis won the US's first gold medal. At 36, she's the oldest female gold medalist in the Winter Games. But there's more. It comes amid reports that a Russian skater tested positive for a banned heart medication. As if the country didn't get the hint from last time.
Whether you want to learn more about the best mental health habits, your financial well-being, the impact nutrition has on brain health or how to sync your sleep cycles, SkimmU Well has got you covered. Join us for our virtual event series designed to empower you to take actionable steps toward living your smartest (and healthiest) life.
Sign up here to attend four live sessions led by industry pros, join interactive Q&As, and more. Our next semester kicks off on February 23. See you there.
Skimm Money
If you haven't talked about money with your SO since the check came on your first date, it's time to bring it up. Yes, the money talk might be awkward. But being open and honest about your financial habits and goals can help you build a healthy relationship with your partner AND your bank account. Use these talking points to start the conversation.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. A lightweight, luminizing serum that'll get you glowing. We have a feeling we know why this vitamin C-rich illuminator has gone viral. Hint: because it feels like nothing but looks like everything. Psst…it tends to sell out fast. And Skimm'rs get an exclusive 15% off.*
2. How to add more mindfulness to your day. Even if it's just 10 minutes. That's truly all the time you'll need with Noom's newest wellness program. It's got tools and resources (including coaches) that can help you manage stress and build resilience. Learn more.*
3. Victoria Beckham's advice for building credibility and making a name for yourself. In our latest ep of "9 to 5ish," sponsored by Porsche, we hear from the Spice Girl turned designer turned co-founder. Aaand her partner and beauty business guru Sarah Creal. Don't miss it.*
4. A V-Day gift box that says it all. Literally. This brand just dropped four curated boxes full of swoon-worthy presents. Think: long-lasting candles, IG-worthy tumblers, and sweet treats. Plus a plush bear you can customize with a prerecorded message. Here's 10% off with code SKIMM10.*
5.Kids' streetwear that puts the 'super' in superheroes. Woman- and Black-owned brand Royal Nation is on a mission to help all kids embrace their own superpowers. Thanks to its focus on quality apparel, diverse characters, inspiring content, and gender-neutral styles. See their origin story.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Staying on track...Jessica P (MD). After volunteering in Ecuador, Jess has spent the past two years preparing and studying to get into nursing school. In 3 weeks, she'll be starting her journey in an accelerated RN program in MD to join the thousands of healthcare workers fighting for our communities.
(Some) Birthdays…Skimm Grandma Bernice Zakin turning 104 (FL), theSkimm's Caitlyn Martin (MA), Michelle Haines (CA), Jesse Draper (CA), Marah Elizabeth (NY), Melissa Boehm (MO), Courtney Cashman (MN), Maggie Meiners (WA), Carolyn Flemming (TX), Carla Calandra (NY), Lillian Soto (CA), Angela McCord (KY), Mary Meade McMullan (NC), Chelsey Raymond (MO), Rick Whitley (AR)
*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
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