California referendum launched to halt mandatory ‘gay history’ law
Image via WikipediaConservative leaders in California are gathering support for a referendum to block the state’s new law that mandates that history curricula highlight homosexual figures, and that forbids any teaching that reflects negatively upon homosexuality.
Governor Jerry Brown this month signed SB 48, which mandates an emphasis on “lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender” role models in K-12 history and social science textbooks.
Because California constitutes a large share of the national textbook market, the mandate, although unique to California, would likely cause the printing and distribution of “gay-friendly” textbooks for consumption across America.
In response, the Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) with several other pro-family organizations quickly launched a referendum for a SB 48 repeal. Papers have been filed with the California Attorney General’s Office, where officials will craft an official title and summary.
Once a title and summary are received from the Attorney General, supporters will have until October 12 to gather approximately 500,000 valid signatures to place the referendum on the ballot. In the meantime, SB 48, set to go into effect on January 1, is automatically suspended.
A growing coalition of pro-family leaders across the state are supporting the official campaign at StopSB48.com, according to PJI.
“We have been seeing a groundswell of opposition to the enactment of SB 48, and now it is time to act,” said Brad Dacus, president of Pacific Justice Institute, in a statement.
Dacus encouraged supporters to visit StopSB48.com for more information on joining the coalition. “We cannot afford to stay silent or stand on the sidelines.”
