Wisconsin School District Censors Song for Being “Controversial”
A controversy over censorship at a Wisconsin school district has sparked outrage from students, parents, and the broader community. Heyer Elementary school in Waukesha banned first graders from singing “Rainbowland” by Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton for a spring concert due to it being “controversial” and conflicting with school policy.
According to reports, the song was deemed controversial because it promotes LGBTQ acceptance and references rainbows. The district has an approval process for controversial topics, which includes reviewing the song alongside board policy 2240. However, in this instance, the superintendent cited a school board policy against raising controversial issues in classrooms.
Superintendent prohibits Rainbows and Pride Flags from being displayed in classrooms
The decision to censor the song has prompted criticism from those who see this action as an attack on LGBTQ+ inclusivity and rights in schools. In fact, the district has previously prohibited rainbows and pride flags from being displayed in Waukesha classrooms.
This latest ban by Heyer Elementary School has caused concern about hostile policies towards LGBTQ+ students, teachers, and their families resulting from the right-wing takeover of local school boards seen across Wisconsin.
Teachers concerned about what ban means for students
Teacher Melissa Tempel, who chose the song because of its “universal message” and “sweetness,” voiced her concern about what this ban means for her students’ understanding of acceptance and diversity. Parents of students at Heyer Elementary School also criticized the decision to censor the song.
The controversy has reached national attention, with Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton receiving requests for comments on their duet’s censorship.
Ban Over Political Pushback on LGBTQ+ Inclusivity and Rights
The ban on “Rainbowland” has been attributed to an increase in partisanship regarding Republican challenges to progressive policies, including transgender kids and COVID-19 restrictions.
Regardless, the song talks about working together and living in harmony with lyrics such as “Cause I know if we try, we could really make a difference in this world” and “Living in a Rainbowland … Where we’re free to be exactly who we are / Let’s all dig down deep inside / Brush the judgment and fear aside.”
Alternative Song Selected
Despite the controversy, the first-grade class still performed their spring concert at Heyer Elementary School. However, instead of singing “Rainbowland,” they sung “Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog.
The controversy over the song’s censorship highlights the ongoing national conversation over censorship and the need for safe and inclusive classrooms. Schools must navigate how to balance respecting free speech while also protecting students from potentially harmful or insensitive material.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
