A federal judge in Iowa blocked a law aiming to restrict sexually explicit books in schools and prevent teaching gender ideology to elementary students.
The judge found the law “unreasonable” and “puritanical,” criticizing its broad scope and impact on school libraries.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed disappointment, emphasizing the need to shield children from sexual content and gender theory. (Trending: Obama Judge Issues Shock Ruling Against Democrats)
Judge Stephen Locher wrote, “It requires the wholesale removal of every book containing a description or visual depiction of a ‘sex act’ regardless of context.”
“The underlying message is that there is no redeeming value to any such book even if it is a work of history, self-help guide, award-winning novel or other piece of serious literature. In effect, the Legislature has imposed a puritanical ‘pall of orthodoxy’ over school libraries,” he continued.
“Instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation has no place in kindergarten through sixth grade classrooms. And there should be no question that books containing sexually explicit content — as clearly defined in Iowa law — do not belong in a school library for children,” said Reynolds.
“The fact that we’re even arguing these issues is ridiculous. The real debate should be about why society is so intent on over-sexualizing our young children. It’s wrong, and I will continue to do my part to protect their innocence,” she continued.
The law was challenged by a coalition including Penguin Random House, John Green, and Jodi Picoult.
According to the law, “A school district shall not provide any program, curriculum, test, survey, questionnaire, promotion, or instruction relating to gender identity or sexual orientation to students in kindergarten through grade six.”
The ruling has sparked debate about the role of gender ideology and sexually explicit content in schools, with ongoing promises to continue the legal fight.
Mike Beranek, president of the Iowa State Education Association, said, “When education professionals return to work next week, they can do what they do best: take great care of all their students without fear of reprisal”
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, said, “I am deeply disappointed in the district court’s decision today. Sexually explicit books do not belong in our elementary-school libraries or classrooms. Not only is it common sense, it’s the law. As Attorney General, I will keep on fighting to protect families, enforce the law, and keep inappropriate books out of the hands of children in school.”
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