Justice Sonia Sotomayor expressed serious concerns over a recent Supreme Court ruling that permits Maryland parents to opt their children out of LGBTQ+ lessons, arguing it threatens public education's integrity. The 6-3 decision emphasized parental religious freedom but was met with dissent from Sotomayor and others, who believe such opt-outs undermine exposure to diverse ideas essential for democracy. The case arose after Montgomery County Public Schools ended its policy allowing opt-outs, citing risks of absenteeism and social stigma for LGBTQ+ students and families. Sotomayor warned this ruling could diminish civic understanding among children.
Public schools offer to children of all faiths and backgrounds an education and an opportunity to practice living in our multicultural society. That experience is critical to our Nation's civic vitality.
The Court invents a constitutional right to avoid exposure to 'subtle' themes 'contrary to the religious principles' that parents wish to instill in their children.
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