A group of Christian parents, including Moges, is suing Maryland’s largest school district, arguing they should be allowed to opt their children out of lessons involving gender identity and sexuality. “We have no hate for anyone,” said Moges. “We’re saying that we, as parents, do not want our children to be exposed to these ideas at this age because they’re not ready for it.” Montgomery County Public Schools and civil rights groups argue that allowing such exemptions would create an unworkable burden, forcing educators to anticipate and notify parents of any classroom content that might conflict with their beliefs. The Supreme Court will hear arguments Tuesday in what could be its most consequential religious freedom case in years, touching on transgender rights, parental control over curriculum, and the role of religion in public education. The parents cite a 1972 ruling that allowed Amish families to withdraw children from school after eighth grade as part of their legal foundation.
The Supreme Court will hear a legal challenge next week brought by Maryland parents who seek to opt their elementary school children out of hearing about LGBTQ topics during story time.
