Muslim parents in Montgomery County, Maryland express concern over LGBTQ books in schools

In Montgomery County, Maryland, a group of American Muslim parents has expressed opposition to their children reading books about LGBTQ people in public schools. These parents claim that discussing gender identity, especially with young children, goes against their religious beliefs. This surprising opposition challenges the assumption that conservative parental rights movements are predominantly led by white Christian parents. The school district, on the other hand, sees the inclusion of LGBTQ affirming books as a means to promote diversity and inclusivity. The district added these books to the English language arts curriculum in elementary schools to encourage empathy and understanding for a diverse range of identities.