“Say Gay” is trending as everyone speaks out against Florida’s Don’t Say Gay law

In response to the Florida legislature passing the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill, people are taking to social media to speak out with the hashtag #SayGay.

The bill would prevent teachers from mentioning LGBTQ people in elementary schools. It passed the Republican-controlled Senate 22-17 on Tuesday after passing the Republican-controlled state House 69-47. Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to sign the bill into law.

Related link: Florida Republican insists “gay isn’t permanent” to explain her vote for “Don’t Say Gay” bill

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Actor and advocate Wilson Cruz reflected on the decision from the site of the Pulse nightclub massacre in Orlando, tweeting: “Almost 6 years after this national #lgbtqia tragedy, Florida has learned NOTHING about how to prevent another Pulse.”

Out Latinx Florida Rep. Carlos G. Smith (D) pointed to the other forces of discrimination also at play in the Florida legislature, noting: “While the Florida Senate prepares to pass #DontSayGay, I’m in the House fighting voter suppression and anti-immigrant bills. We stand in solidarity with LGBTQ Floridians and others whose freedoms are under attack in this so-called ‘free state.'”

Many of the Florida lawmakers who opposed the bill demonstrated their opposition by posting images with duct tape over their mouths with the word “gay” on it.

State Rep. Allison Tant (D) tweeted: “I will continue to #saygay and support our LGBTQ+ youth and community in the state of Florida.”

State Sen. Tina Polsky (D) wrote: “Just finished my debate on the floor against the don’t say gay bill. I won’t stay silent.”

State Rep. Andrew Learned (D) explained: “I #SayGay for the little guys out there, the marginalized and bullied, for the kids who don’t belong at the cool-kids-table at lunch. You are perfect whether you’re gay or straight, black or brown, man or woman. I’ll always have your back. Be free and love fully.”

State Sen. Lori Berman (D) wrote: “Queer children exist, and they need support — not silence.””

Producer Jay Arnold made clear that the vote would have consequences on how he conducts his business, and called out Disney for not using its influence to fight against the bill.

Author Frederick Joseph also announced he is stepping up to start the #SayGay fund “to help efforts to protect LGBTQ+ youth in Florida and combat Ron DeSantis’ #DontSayGay bill.”