Noting that this bill was not only an assault on free speech but that it would inappropriately quash important teaching and conversation around such issues as institutional racism or sexism, we opposed legislation which sought to ban the teaching of “divisive topics” in public schools. Among other things, the bill would have banned the teaching of subjects that could cause “discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress” to an individual on account of their race or sex, language so vague and subjective that it was inherently unenforceable and a direct assault on academic freedom. Thankfully, the bill died in committee.
Prohibition on Teaching “Divisive Concepts” (H 6070)
Sponsors
Representative Patricia Morgan
Related content

R.I. Latino Arts Argues in Court that “Gender Ideology” Is Still...
July 1, 2025
Settlement Reached in Smithfield School District Social Media...
July 1, 2025
RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence Seeks Injunction Against...
June 30, 2025
RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence v. Bondi
June 16, 2025
Challenging New Federal Grant Requirements, ACLU Of RI, Lawyers’...
June 16, 2025
ACLU and RWU Law School Clinic Sue Again Over ACI’s Failure to...
June 13, 2025
Smith v. RI Department of Corrections
June 13, 2025
Equity Impact Statements (S 805)
June 2, 2025