Editor’s Note: As we were preparing to publish this last episode and commentary, we received some great news about the “No Saying Gay Law.”
Roberta Kaplan scores another stunning victory
The settlement over Florida’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law (officially known as the Parental Rights in Education Act) has attracted attention because it clarified the scope of permissible discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity in educational settings. The settlement was the result of a legal battle led by groups across the state and was ultimately negotiated by Roberta Kaplan, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights with a history of significant legal victories, including the landmark United States v. Windsor case and a recent victory against Donald Trump.
Teachers can say “gay” but they can’t “teach” gay… or something like that.
The agreement allows Florida teachers to discuss LGBTQ+ issues.This addressed concerns about the law’s restrictions on such conversations while maintaining the prohibition on explicit instruction about gender identity and sexuality that the bill originally sought to enforce.
Both supporters of the law and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups declared the settlement a victory. While supporters of the law argue that the core principles of the law are preserved by removing explicit discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity from the curriculum, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups see the settlement as a victory for inclusivity and free speech, sending a message to young people about their right to be present and seen alongside LGBTQ teachers and staff.
The broader reaction to the settlement has been mixed, reflecting the sharp polarization of opinion on how sexuality and gender identity should be addressed in schools.
And the good queer people of Key West are part of the resistance, and they’re not going to back down…
Supporting communities across the Florida border
Keys, especially Key Westrebels against conventional Florida norms, a place where you can say “gay” as freely as the ocean breeze blowing through the streets and hear drag queens tell their stories in the heart of the city. From its rebellious beginnings to its celebration of life on the modern fringe, Key West has always welcomed individuality.
Going further: Keeping Key West gay is a movement
This paradise island may seem secluded, but its off-centre, quirky charm only adds to its allure. Tennessee Williams once summed up the diversity and inclusiveness of his community by saying, “There’s all kinds of people in this place.” That’s still true today. And we’re here to support that spirit. Won’t you join us?
Be yourself. Be yourself in public.
In case you missed it, no visit is complete without sampling some key lime pie, enjoying brunch any time of the day, slipping out of your swimsuit for a few hours, and sipping a few drinks as the sun sinks below the horizon. Key WestIt’s not just about escaping reality, it’s about embracing a lifestyle where the only rule is to be yourself.
If you’re looking for adventure, a little romance, a little bit less romance, a great place to relax, or a little bit of everything, come experience the magic of Key West and you’ll surely come back a convert.
We hope you enjoyed our podcast series Gay Key West SecretsWe’ll be exploring and showcasing the island’s many charms. You can listen to the full series on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, Stitcher and more.
Source: Towleroad Gay News – www.towleroad.com
