Opponents of LGBTQ policy feign victimhood

The Linn-Mar School board deserves high praise for standing up to fear mongering and misinformation in order to protect some of its most vulnerable students.

In an extraordinary feat of mental gymnastics, opponents of the district’s policy regarding LGBTQ students tried to paint themselves as victims. In reality, numerous studies have shown members of the LGBTQ community are particularly susceptible to harassment, bullying and assault.

Opponents showed their true colors at a recent rally when they waved “Don’t tread on me” and Crusader flags — both of which have been embraced by far-right, extremist groups. (Members of militia groups and white supremacists waved them at the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol.) On top of this, Gov. Kim Reynolds and Rep. Ashley Hinson fanned the flames by meeting secretly with opponents this week.

Despite such acrimony, the district is standing for all its students — a mission that’s unique to public schools. Perhaps that inclusivity is what makes far right extremists so determined to destroy them.

Susan Blocker

Cedar Rapids