A Texas conservative advocacy group is calling on Austin Independent School District to cancel plans for a districtwide Pride Week, arguing the event may violate a new state law regulating discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in schools.
The group Texas Values issued a statement this week asking the district to halt the observance, citing Texas Senate Bill 12.
Texas Values says the legislation restricts certain classroom instruction and school activities related to gender identity and sexual orientation, particularly for younger students, and believes the proposed Pride Week could conflict with those restrictions.
“Schools should be focused on academics and complying with state law,” the group said in a statement urging district leaders to cancel the event.
The Austin Independent School District has previously recognized Pride Week as a way to acknowledge LGBTQ students and promote inclusivity in schools. District officials say activities are typically organized by individual campuses and may include student-led events, educational discussions, and support resources.
AISD has not indicated that it plans to cancel the observance.
District officials have said their goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students while following state law.
Senate Bill 12 was passed during the most recent Texas legislative session and places new limits on how schools address issues related to gender identity and sexual orientation.
Supporters of the law say it is intended to ensure age-appropriate instruction and give parents greater oversight of what their children are taught in school.
Critics argue the legislation could discourage schools from recognizing or supporting LGBTQ students.
It remains unclear whether any legal action will be pursued if the district moves forward with Pride Week activities.
AISD officials have not yet publicly responded to the advocacy group’s request.
