Arizona Candidates Rally Against LGBTQ-Affirming Policies

In the lead-up to the November 5 election, homophobic and transphobic rhetoric is surfacing prominently in Arizona’s school board candidates’ platforms. Language that labels queer individuals as “groomers” or “pedophiles” has infiltrated not just public meetings but also political campaigns.

Candidates statewide are leveraging false claims about schools “sexualizing” children and alleging that institutions are promoting a so-called “gender ideology.” This terminology has gained traction among far-right factions in response to gender-affirming guidelines implemented recently for LGBTQ+ students.

Last year alone, at least 44 anti-LGBTQ+ candidates attempted to reshape school policies with platforms aimed at eradicating “gender ideology” from educational settings. Although many of these candidates faced defeat, a renewed focus on LGBTQ+ issues has reemerged this election cycle, propelled by conservative groups.

While the full number of candidates currently utilizing “gender ideology” as a campaign issue remains unclear, investigative efforts identified at least 58 individuals who have garnered endorsements from anti-LGBTQ+ organizations. Should they succeed, these candidates could significantly influence what Arizona’s approximately 1.6 million minors learn within public schools.

Among those identified is Shelly Boggs, vying for Maricopa County School Superintendent, who vigorously opposes diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Other notable candidates include Sharon Benson for Mesa Unified Governing School Board, backed by Boggs, and Esteban Flores for Tucson Unified Governing School Board, who claims the district is harming students through its approach to transgender issues.

These candidates appear on a conservative voter guide published by Arizona Women of Action PAC, a group advocating for “age-appropriate” educational resources devoid of ideological influences.

“They want these kids to feel bad about themselves, and that’s why they’re spouting all of this rhetoric,” stated Tyler Kowch, communications manager at Save Our Schools Arizona. He believes this narrative of fear is a strategic tool for those seeking election or re-election.

Turning Point USA and Moms for Liberty are among the organizations accused of promoting discrimination and spreading exclusionary campaigns against LGBTQ+ candidates through social media and events.

Conservative politicians have historically conflated queerness with pedophilia, targeting diversity and inclusion programs for elimination. Recent controversies include false claims about classroom accommodations for students identifying as animals, an unfounded narrative intended to stoke fear.

In Gilbert, a Higley High School teacher faced backlash and was labeled a ‘groomer’ by a parent for including a diverse range of literature in her curriculum; she is now under police investigation. This incident underscores the increasing scrutiny on educational content.

While many of the candidates are part of lower-profile races, voices in the education community stress that this movement begins at the top. State Superintendent Tom Horne, known for his anti-woke stance, has faced criticism for his policies which include limiting transgender students’ rights and removing resources for LGBTQ+ youth from the education department’s website.

“Tom Horne’s rhetoric sounds like he’s in favor of bullying,” remarked Mitzi Epstein, a candidate for the Senate in district LD12. She highlighted the need for increased scrutiny on candidates like Horne and his allies.

Epstein also referenced her opponent Cara Vicini, who has dismissed the legitimacy of multiple genders. Vicini’s assertions during a debate that local schools are promoting “gender ideology” were made without evidence, reflecting a broader disconnect with the realities of diversity in education.

Many candidates employed anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric to enhance their political appeal rather than initiating constructive policy discussions. “Strong schools equate to a strong economy,” stated Mikah Dyer, a candidate for Peoria Unified School Board, emphasizing the need for nonpartisan governance in education.

Marisol Garcia, president of the Arizona Education Association, criticized the fearmongering tactics of anti-LGBTQ+ candidates, advocating for policies aimed at inclusivity rather than scapegoating marginalized groups. She noted how the incendiary language serves to both hurt those targeted and bolster support from like-minded individuals.

As Election Day approaches, Garcia urges voters to remain vigilant about their choices, reminding them that some candidates seek genuine solutions while others thrive on fearmongering tactics.