Highlights:
- Apple CEO Tim Cook, expressed his concern against a controversial education bill in Florida over discrimination against the LGBT community.
- In 2014, Mr Cook came out as gay in public.
- The Parental Rights in Education forbids discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the classroom.
Apple CEO Tim Cook, who has repeatedly spoken out against discrimination against the LGBT community, stepped into a debate over a controversial Florida education bill that allegedly targets LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) youths.
The Apple CEO tweeted, “As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply concerned about laws being enacted across the country, particularly those focused on our vulnerable youth. I stand with them and the families, loved ones, and allies who support them.”
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply concerned about laws being enacted across the country, particularly those focused on our vulnerable youth. I stand with them and the families, loved ones, and allies who support them.
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) March 11, 2022
The Parental Rights in Education bill, which prohibits many young students from discussing their sexual orientation or gender identity in the classroom, was enacted by Florida’s Republican-controlled state legislature on March 8.
The bill will now be sent to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for his signature, which supporters claim would strengthen parental rights.
“Classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity by school officials or third parties may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a way that is not age-appropriate or developmentally suitable for students in accordance with state standards,” the bill states.
In October 2014, Mr Cook came out gay publicly, adding, “I’m proud to be gay, and I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me.”
He stated he chose to come out about his sexual orientation after hearing from youngsters who had been tormented and abused and were feeling suicidal.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek has joined the list of celebrities who oppose the law, which has been dubbed the “don’t say gay” bill by critics.
Republicans who backed the law claimed it was intended to prevent inappropriate sex and gender identity talks among young students.
President of the United States Joe Biden spoke out against the bill, reiterating his administration’s support for the LGBTQ+ community.
“I want every member of the LGBTQI+ community – especially the kids who will be impacted by this hateful bill – to know that you are loved and accepted just as you are. I have your back, and my Administration will continue to fight for the protection and safety you deserve,” President Biden tweeted.
I want every member of the LGBTQI+ community — especially the kids who will be impacted by this hateful bill — to know that you are loved and accepted just as you are. I have your back, and my Administration will continue to fight for the protections and safety you deserve. https://t.co/OcAIMeVpHL
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 8, 2022
US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona slammed Florida lawmakers for “prioritising hateful bills that harm some of the most vulnerable students” in a statement.
