An organized protest called “1 Million March 4 Children” filled the streets of Canada on Wednesday, Sept. 20. The protesters were parents arguing that sexual content should stay outside of schools.
Thousands of parents expressed concerns over school curriculum focusing on sexual education, as well as policies keeping parents in the dark over children changing gender identities in school.
The protesters used signs saying things like: “Stop the indoctrination and sexualization of out children,” while chanting “no more silence” and “hands off our kids.
However, their protests were countered with other parents showing up to support the opposite perspective, holding signs such as: “Let trans kids thrive,” and “Trans kids need safe spaces.”
These protesters argued that children have the right to learn about sexual orientation and should be able to change their identities without parental knowledge.
The protests were widespread and took place in streets, at government buildings, in front of school buildings and even included marches from Montreal to Ottawa.
The United States is battling with the same issue. Currently, U.S. policies are largely dependent on local school boards or state laws, however they may start to rise to a federal level.
The upcoming 2024 presidential election is increasing political attention to the debate, with candidates using the controversy as a talking point to appeal to parents.