In today’s world, children are exposed to adult concepts and themes at a younger age than ever before. It is important to remember that children need to remain children as long as possible, so that they can enjoy the innocence and joy that comes with childhood. Unfortunately, there has been a recent controversy at a Waukesha, Wisconsin, elementary school that highlights this issue.
The annual spring concert at the elementary school is meant to showcase the children and spread joy to the parents and community. However, this year, controversy erupted when a first-grade teacher chose to have her class perform the song “Rainbowland” by Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton. The administration vetoed the song, citing its controversial message. The song is about acceptance of the LGBTQ community, and includes lyrics like “all the hurt and the hate going on here” and “brush the judgement and fear aside.”
Many are now asking why 6-year-olds are being taught about sexual orientation in school, and why they are being used as performative activists to teach a moral lesson to society. While the song’s message of love and acceptance is important, it is not appropriate for first-graders to be singing about hurt, hate, fear, and judgement at a school concert that is meant to spread happiness and jubilation.
The controversy has sparked a massive backlash, with many calling the administration bigoted and non-supportive of LGBTQ students. However, the school policy clearly states that any controversial material that could be the subject of intense public argument, disagreement, or disapproval, and which may have political, social, or personal impacts on students and/or the community, is not allowed. Therefore, regardless of personal beliefs, the song was not appropriate for the school concert.
Furthermore, the idea that rainbows are exclusively associated with the LGBTQ community is misguided. While the rainbow has been adopted as a symbol of the community, it is not “owned” by anyone. There are many songs about rainbows that have nothing to do with sexual orientation or activism, such as “The Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog.
In conclusion, it is important to uphold the innocence and magic of childhood for as long as possible. Children should not be exposed to adult themes and concepts before they are ready. While it is important to teach acceptance and love, it should be done in an age-appropriate manner. Let us allow children to be children, and enjoy the simple joys and happiness that come with childhood.
