The smoke and mirrors can’t hide what’s going on anymore. And the highest court in the land is going in for the kill.
Because this Supreme Court Justice slammed Democrats for one sickening act.
Supreme Court Scrutinizes Maryland School’s LGBTQ Book Policy
In a lively Supreme Court session this week, Justice Neil Gorsuch engaged in a spirited back-and-forth with Alan Schoenfeld, the attorney for Montgomery County Public Schools, over the use of a children’s book, Pride Puppy!, in a case that pits parental rights against school curriculum choices.
The dispute centers on whether parents should be allowed to opt their children out of reading LGBTQ-themed storybooks in public schools.
Pride Puppy!, a 32-page rhyming alphabet book, follows a family’s joyful day at a Pride parade, where their dog gets lost amid the festivities. Described by its publisher as “affirming and inclusive,” the book invites young readers to spot items corresponding to each letter of the alphabet while celebrating the vibrancy of the Pride community. It was once part of the district’s pre-kindergarten curriculum.
“And they’re being used in English language instruction at age 3?” Gorsuch asked.
“‘Pride Puppy!’ was the book that was used for the pre-kindergarten curriculum. That’s no longer in the curriculum,” replied Schoenfeld.
“That’s the one where they’re supposed to look for the leather and things – and b*ndage – things like that,” Gorsuch responded.
“It’s not b*ndage. It’s a woman in a leather…”
A “s*x worker?” asked Gorsuch.
“No. That’s not correct. No,” replied Schoenfeld.
“Gosh, I read it…drag queen?” said Gorsuch.
Schoenfeld clarified that the leather was simply a woman in a leather jacket and noted that “one of the words is drag queen.”
Parental Rights vs. School Authority
The case, Mahmoud v. Taylor, brought by religious parents, argues that the school district’s refusal to allow opt-outs for certain LGBTQ-themed books violates the First Amendment. Eric Baxter, representing the parents, told the justices that the district’s policy forces young children to navigate moral messages that may conflict with their family’s beliefs.
Baxter highlighted inconsistencies in the district’s approach, noting that exemptions are granted for other religious objections, such as books depicting the Muslim Prophet Muhammad. “When the books were first introduced in August of 2022, the board suggested they be used five times before the end of the year,” he said. “One of the schools, Sherwood School, in June for Pride Month said that they were going to read one book each day.”
Initially, the district permitted opt-outs for religious reasons but reversed this policy by March 2023, citing logistical challenges and concerns about absenteeism.
Other Books Fuel the Debate
Beyond Pride Puppy!, the court discussed other books at the heart of the controversy. Prince & Knight, a modern fairy tale for ages 4 to 8, tells of two men who fall in love after defeating a dragon and later wed. Another book, Uncle Bobby’s Wedding, explores a young girl’s perspective on her uncle’s decision to marry another man.
As the justices weigh the balance between educational mandates and parental rights, the outcome of this case could reshape how schools handle sensitive curriculum materials. A ruling is anticipated by late June.
