Whereas, The fundamental right of parents over the upbringing of their children has been unequivocally established in the United States. Parents are in the best position to know their children’s needs and circumstances, and therefore should maintain authority over all information and decisions that could impact the health and well-being of their children; and
Whereas, Portions of the Michigan Department of Education’s LGBTQ teacher training videos suggest not telling parents their child’s gender orientation, sexual orientation, or pronouns. These videos train teachers that they do not have to disclose a child’s gender or sexual orientation even if it is contributing to the child’s suicidal thoughts. This not only puts a child’s life at risk, but it also denies parents their fundamental right to protect the health and safety of their children. Further, this is an all-out affront to our constitution that clearly establishes that parental rights are sacred and secured. The offensive nature of these videos clearly represents the out of touch perspective of the Michigan Department of Education and this Administration who routinely demonstrate their disdain for parents and parents’ rights; and
Whereas, Parents’ fundamental right to direct the care, teaching, and education of their children is infringed upon when school districts do not have total transparency and do not defer to parents regarding their children’s gender identity, sexual orientation, preferred pronouns, or any other issue related to their child’s gender identity known to the school. Parents have the right to direct any discussion regarding these topics with their children. Michigan’s public schools should not promote exploration of gender identity, gender fluidity, or sexual orientation without parental consent. These topics are highly sensitive and, at the very least, require active involvement of parents who are the primary principals in their children’s development; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we condemn the Michigan Department of Education’s teacher training videos on student gender orientation and reaffirm the fundamental right of parents to direct the education of their children; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of Michigan, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the State Board of Education.
Pending the order that, under rule 3.204, the resolution be referred to the Committee on Government Operations,
Senator Lauwers moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senator Lauwers requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The resolution was adopted, a majority of the members voting therefor, as follows: