In an attempt to show support for a transgender student, the principal of Mount Horeb Primary Center in Wisconsin scheduled a reading of the children’s book “I Am Jazz”.
The school sent a letter out to parents stating, “We believe all students deserve respect and support regardless of their gender identity and expression, and the best way to foster that respect and support is through educating students about the issue of being transgender.”
“I Am Jazz” is co-written by teenager Jazz Jennings and discusses what the life of a transgender child is like.
The school was contacted by Florida based hate group Liberty Counsel saying they would sue and that by allowing the book to be read by the school district parental rights were violated.
The school district canceled the reading and made a statement saying they will try and address the needs of all individual students but will also be mindful of the needs of all students and families. They also stated that the goal of such a reading activity is to “protect all students from bullying so they can learn together in a safe environment.”