‘FLYING PIGS MOMENT!’ BNI agrees with Somali Muslim parents in Minnesota

A Minnesota school district will allow parents to withdraw their children from LGBTQ lessons after six Somali Muslim families threatened to sue when books discussing multigender ideology where introduced to their elementary school classroom.

Daily Mail (h/t Nita) St. Louis Park Public Schools granted the opt-out requests to six Somali Muslim families who threatened to sue when books discussing gender ideology were introduced to the classroom. Several Somali mothers spoke at a school board meeting on October 24 claiming books that go against their religious beliefs were introduced to the third grade children without their knowledge.

One mother said a group of third-grade students were taught books discussing gender identity and families with two fathers. ‘These books were introduced to our children without our knowledge or consent leaving us with no recourse to opt them out despite our sincere religious objection,’ she said.

‘The manner in which these subjects are taught appears to exceed the boundaries of affirmation, urging every child to delve into their own understanding of gender and sexuality. This approach, we believe, directly conflicts with our deeply held religious beliefs

One of the books mentioned, My Shadow is Pink, by Scott Stuart, is about a boy who likes princesses and fairies and learns from his father that everyone has a shadow that they sometimes feel they need to hide.

Another book mentioned is Ho’onani: Hula Warrior by Heather Gale, is based on a true story about a young girl in Hawaii who dreams of leading the boys-only hula troupe at her school.

Legal organizations First Liberty Institute and True North Legal got involved in November and sent a letter to the school district claiming denials of the opt-outs violated the First Amendment and state law.

Three weeks after the group sent the letter, the school district created an ‘Alternative Learning Procedure’ that allowed parents to opt out of lessons that go against their beliefs.

The new regulations only apply to lesson instruction, and not classroom discussions. The discussions are not subject to review or opt-outs, the district contends.

‘Opt-outs based on representation of protected classes do not uphold our values of creating safe and inclusive learning and working environments in our schools. However, because it is required within state law, any change would need to happen with the involvement of state lawmakers,’ the district said.