A sweeping bill introduced by a Republican legislator in Mississippi aims to prohibit public schools from creating or teaching diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The bill, House Bill 1193, has sparked concerns among Democrats who argue it erases efforts to combat discrimination.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Joey Hood of Ackerman, would ban schools from teaching “divisive concepts” that promote certain demographic groups as superior or inherently oppressive. It also prohibits schools from maintaining programs promoting transgender ideology, gender-neutral pronouns, and heteronormativity.
However, Democrats point out the lack of clarity on how the bill will be enforced and what constitutes a complaint if a school is found to be violating it. The state would withhold grants from schools that receive two complaints, but Hood did not provide a clear definition of what a complaint looks like or what information is required.
Despite concerns, Hood maintained that the bill addresses schools teaching “divisive concepts” and does not restrict free speech. He stated that job applications for public schools can still ask demographic questions, but the bill prohibits requiring diversity statements and programs in admissions processes.
Source: https://www.mississippifreepress.org/divisive-concepts-public-schools-could-end-dei-programs-under-mississippi-house-bill