We Say Gay! How Safe Schools Fought Back Against “Don’t Say Gay” in Florida

When Florida introduced the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill, it sent a chilling message to students, educators, and families across the state: LGBTQ+ voices didn’t belong in the classroom. But Safe Schools knew better. We understood that silence is never an option when young lives are at stake, and we mobilized immediately. Our resistance to this legislation didn’t just create a wave of activism—it provided a blueprint for how to counter attacks on education and LGBTQ+ rights at every level.

Now, nearly two years later, we find ourselves at another crossroads. The current administration continues its relentless efforts to erase LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion in schools. But thanks to the lessons we learned—and the victories we secured—we are prepared for the fight ahead.

The Battle Begins: How Safe Schools Led the Charge

From the moment the “Don’t Say Gay” bill was introduced, it was clear that the vague and deliberately harmful language would have a catastrophic impact. The law barred discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades and restricted them in later grades under the ambiguous term “age-appropriate.” It left educators fearful, students silenced, and families uncertain about their rights. Even more troubling, the law allowed for the forced outing of LGBTQ+ youth by requiring schools to inform parents about changes in a student’s mental or emotional well-being—regardless of whether the student felt safe at home.

Safe Schools refused to let this go unchallenged. As the first youth-serving nonprofit to organize protests before the bill even reached the Senate Education Committee, we made sure that young voices were front and center in the fight. We took action immediately:

  • Mobilizing students and communities: We organized protests across Florida, including the statewide “Bring the Action” campaign, which saw students wearing purple in solidarity and walking out of their classrooms.
  • Busing activists to Tallahassee: We made sure students could directly lobby lawmakers and share their lived experiences.
  • Creating powerful public demonstrations: From aerial messages over schools to protests at the gates of Walt Disney World, we forced the issue into the national spotlight.
  • Partnering with key organizations and influencers: We amplified our message and reached broader audiences to put pressure on both lawmakers and the public.

Despite these efforts, the bill was signed into law on March 28, 2022. The disappointment was real, but our fight was far from over.

Resistance Becomes a Blueprint: How We Adapted and Pushed Back

Instead of retreating, Safe Schools doubled down. We immediately launched a series of “Know Your Rights” workshops to help students and educators navigate the new restrictions while continuing to affirm LGBTQ+ identities in the classroom. We also provided legal resources and mental health support to those directly impacted.

And then, the tide began to turn.

Two years of relentless advocacy culminated in a landmark settlement on March 12, 2024, between the state of Florida and LGBTQ+ families. This was a pivotal victory by our friends at Equality Florida that weakened many of the worst aspects of the law. As a result of our efforts and the bravery of those who refused to stay silent, we secured critical protections:

  • Free Expression Restored: Students and educators can once again discuss LGBTQ+ identities without fear of censorship.
  • Anti-Bullying Protections Strengthened: Schools are now required to uphold stronger safety measures to prevent harassment.
  • Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) Protected: These vital student support groups will not be banned or restricted.
  • Classroom References Clarified: LGBTQ+ people and history can be included in curriculum without unnecessary legal risks.
  • Non-Discrimination Assured: The dangerous legal loopholes that allowed for LGBTQ+ discrimination have been addressed.
  • Extracurricular Activities Protected: LGBTQ+ student clubs and events can continue without fear of being shut down.

What Comes Next: Fighting the New Wave of Attacks

The weakening of “Don’t Say Gay” proved that community activism works. It showed that when students, educators, and allies come together, even the most oppressive laws can be challenged. But we know this fight isn’t over.

The current administration has doubled down on its efforts to strip away LGBTQ+ rights. New policies continue to target inclusive education, healthcare, and the rights of trans youth. But Safe Schools is ready.

  • We will continue educating: Our Queering the Spectrum professional training ensures that educators and mental health professionals have the tools they need to support LGBTQ+ students.
  • We will continue organizing: Whether it’s in the courts, in the classrooms, or in the streets, Safe Schools will always stand on the front lines.
  • We will continue empowering youth: Through programs like EmpowerQ, we are developing the next generation of activists and leaders.

Florida’s attempt to silence LGBTQ+ voices backfired. Instead, it strengthened our resolve, provided us with new strategies, and proved that progress is possible even in the most challenging environments.

We say gay. We will always say gay. And we will never stop fighting for the right to be seen, heard, and valued.

By: Rev. Dr. Harold Marrero
Chief Operating Officer

We encourage you to share this information with friends, fellow teachers, and allies and join us in bringing awareness to our efforts. Your support is essential for our ongoing work to create safe spaces for all students, regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or expression. Please consider donating to Safe Schools so that we can continue advocating for inclusivity and diversity within the education system.