AUSTIN, Texas — Controversy is growing around Austin ISD’s Pride Week, set for this week, as the State Board of Education calls on the district to get rid of the themed week altogether, and some parents argue there are more pressing issues.
The debate comes as a new state law, Senate Bill 12, has recently gone into effect. The law bans the use of diversity, equity, and inclusion in public schools and clubs.
To comply, Austin ISD says Pride Week will be made up of voluntary events held outside of instructional time. The district also plans to get rid of blended courses that go along with classroom activities, and the events will need to be funded by PTAs and other organizations.
Mary Castle, director of government relations for Texas Values, said the district should end the week entirely.
“This Pride Week could be in violation of state law, and they should just discontinue it,” Castle said.
Elva Mendoza, a district parent and part of the Texas Freedom Network, said Pride Week is positive for many students in the district.
“I want all kids to feel comfortable and that they can be themselves at school, and I think that’s all these activities are meant to do,” Mendoza said.
Austin ISD posted changes to Pride Week on its website, saying events will not happen during instructional time. The district also posted a statement that said, “When students feel safe and can show up as their full selves at school, they’re better able to engage in learning and thrive academically.”
Still, the themed week has drawn criticism from the state. Last week, a member of the State Board of Education called out the district and Superintendent Matias Segura for allowing this week’s events to happen, writing in a letter: “Please immediately stop indoctrinating students with ‘Pride’ activities, and focus on educating them.”
Mendoza said the criticism is painful to see.
“When I see high-ranking officials attacking activities that are meant to make those students feel like they are welcome, that they are accepted, that breaks my heart,” she said.
Texas Values, a conservative education advocacy group, also warned the district last week about potentially violating state law. Castle said the group believes Pride Week is not appropriate for children.
“We unfortunately believe that Pride Week brings in topics that are not appropriate for kids. I mean, it’s basically talking about human sexuality without the parents being involved,” she said.
Austin ISD’s website and FAQs did not mention the acronym LGBTQ+.
The district was contacted for comment about Pride Week and the criticism from the state, but had not responded.