This podcast explores the struggles faced by a parent and child during lockdown, leading to new laws in Florida. It also discusses a challenging high school experience and the impact of a white supremacist cell. The speaker shares their experiences working at Disney and discovering queer nightlife and Pulse Nightclub. The podcast also delves into navigating a child's transgender identity and debunking controversial rumors about schools providing litter boxes. It concludes with a discussion on misconceptions about school safety and the battle over free speech.
The lack of support and understanding from school authorities can contribute to a sense of isolation and lead to drastic life choices.
The clash between parental authority and school guidance can result in legal battles and political involvement.
Deep dives
The Impact of White Supremacy on Brandon's Life
Brandon shares his personal experience of growing up with a stepfather who struggled to understand and support him. He recounts his friend's discovery of a white supremacist group in high school and the lack of response from school authorities. Brandon's sense of isolation and lack of support led him to leave home, drop out of college, and seek solace in the accepting environment at Disney World.
The Tragic Night at Pulse Nightclub
Brandon recounts the horrifying events that took place on June 12th, 2016, at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando. He, along with his best friends Drew and Juan, were enjoying a night out when a gunman opened fire, killing 49 mostly LGBTQ people, including Drew and Juan. Brandon vividly describes the chaos and fear inside the nightclub and the lasting impact it had on his life.
The Conflict Between Parental Concern and School Guidance
January, a mother from Florida, shares her concerns about her daughter's sudden identification as non-binary during the COVID-19 lockdown. She feels that her daughter's identity exploration may be influenced by her friend group and is worried about the potential medical transitioning. January discovers that her daughter's school, in collaboration with a group called Equality Florida, has created LGBTQ support plans without consulting parents. The clash between parental authority and school guidance leads to a legal battle, public activism, and political involvement, including the signing of the controversial Parental Rights and Education Bill by Governor Ron DeSantis.
How a schism between a mother and her teenage daughter during lockdown contributed to Governor Ron DeSantis enacting new and far-reaching laws in Florida.
Written and presented by Jon Ronson
Produced by Sarah Shebbeare
Original music by Phil Channell
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