During a recent campaign event, New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill stated her support for LGBTQ+ inclusive education in schools, asserting that parents should not have the option to opt their children out of this curriculum. In a brief video clip circulating online, Sherrill responds to a question about parental rights regarding LGBTQ+ content, saying, “I would push an LGBTQ education into our schools. Parents have a right to opt out of a lot of things, but this is not an area where they should be opting out.” This stance aligns Sherrill with a growing movement to ensure LGBTQ+ issues are represented in educational settings, though it also raises questions about the balance between inclusive education and parental rights.
The debate over LGBTQ+ education has become increasingly prominent nationwide, with various states grappling with legislation concerning curriculum content and parental involvement. Supporters of inclusive education argue that it promotes understanding, acceptance, and reduces bullying among students. Conversely, some parents express concerns about age appropriateness and potential conflicts with their personal values. While the specifics of New Jersey’s current curriculum requirements are complex, Sherrill’s remarks indicate a desire to prioritize LGBTQ+ education within the state’s public schools, potentially setting the stage for further debate should she be elected governor.