California Poised to Require Gay History Lessons

[PrisonerOfHope]

California Poised to Require Gay History Lessons

www.cbn.com/

California could become the first state to require public schools to teach social studies classes on the contributions of the gay community.

Lawmakers passed the gay curriculum bill Tuesday along party lines. The legislation now heads to Gov. Jerry Brown's desk for signature.

Democratic Assemblyman Tom Ammiano of San Francisco said the legislation is important because gay students are often bullied.

"This bill will require California schools to present a more accurate and nuanced view of American history in our social science curriculum by recognizing the accomplishments of groups that are not often recognized," added openly gay Assembly Speaker John Perez.

California law already requires schools to teach history about women, African Americans, Mexican Americans, entrepreneurs, Asian Americans, European Americans, Native Americans and labor.

The latest bill adds "the contributions and roles of sexual minorities" as well as people with disabilities to that list.

Republicans say the bill raises concerns that students will be indoctrinated into accepting homosexuality.

"I think it's one thing to say that we should be tolerant," Assemblyman Tim Donnelly said. "It is something else altogether to say that my children are going to be taught that this lifestyle is good."

Gov. Brown, a Democrat, has not indicated if he will sign the bill. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar measure in 2006.

Some Christians are calling the bill "sexual brainwashing" and warn it will drive more parents to take their children out of public schools.