I am a patriotic American and I fully support every person’s right to free speech. Yet, words and deeds have consequences.
Many readers may not be aware that several local entrepreneurs are community organizers in a social movement, the Concerned Parents of Hinsdale. According to multiple sources, the organization focuses on issues such as “tranny boys,” “woke gender ideology” and removing LGBTQ books in public schools and libraries. It is public record that local professionals, such as attorneys and real estate agents, have made contributions of $1,000 or more to Concerned Parents of Hinsdale.
Youth mental health is in crisis. According to many studies, youth/young adult depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation are at record levels in the United States. Sadly, LGBTQ+ youth are particularly vulnerable to mental health problems relative to other youth. Psychological science suggests that social stigma and prejudice drive LGBTQ+ youth’s increased mental health risks (and not some inherent vulnerability). Importantly, there is no scientific evidence that exposure to LGBTQ+ people or materials harms children or adolescents. It is therefore puzzling that the Concerned Parents of Hinsdale are perpetuating hate against LGBTQ+ youth.
My message to the Concerned Parents of Hinsdale: Please stop. Our young people have enough to manage. Business leaders: If you support the Concerned Parents of Hinsdale, I will not support you. And maybe I’ll use the money I save to buy a good “gay” book. — Andrea Flynn, Hinsdale
