Equality Illinois issued a press release stating it is "deeply troubled" after a DuPage County teacher is being investigated for posts about LGBTQ history and racial justice.
The videos, which were reposted to Twitter in early September by an anonymous account called "Libs of TikTok," show the third-grade teacher, who works at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, speaking about LGBTQ books and Pride month lesson plans and cautioning viewers against discrimination, NBC Chicago noted.
District 41 says it has received an influx of emails and calls from parents on both sides of the issue, with some parents saying that their children are too young to be taught about the topics, while others support the curriculum.
Equality Illinois CEO Brian C. Johnson stated, "As a former first grade teacher, I recognize when an educator is striving to support all their students, including LGBTQ students and students of color.
"This investigation concerns us. According to Public Act 101-0227 that took effect in July 2020 and that applies to all Illinois public school districts, "the teaching of history shall include a study of the roles and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the history of this country and this State.' Several of the books highlighted by the teacher are specific to LGBTQ contributions in history. We remind District 41 of its obligations under the LGBTQ Inclusive Curriculum Law. We are proud Illinois requires the inclusive and affirming teaching of LGBTQ contributions in history in public schools. Equality Illinois expects public school districts to follow the law.
"We urge District 41—and all school districts in Illinois—to support their amazing teachers and students and to hold firm against local and national individuals and groups who want to advance a hateful political agenda against LGBTQ youth, as we've seen in other states."
