Referendum 90 is a well-intentioned alteration of the social education of our children. Designed for bullying prevention, gender identity inclusion and rape prevention, it seeks to implement Comprehensive Sexual Education in K-12 in an “age appropriate” manner using “evidence based” materials. Parental “opt-outs” are allowed and parents are guaranteed access to the material.
Illinois, California and New York have mandated CSE already. What has evolved? Introductions of gender fluidity and sexual orientation are common in pre-K-3 where non-traumatized, naive children have no natural idea what sexuality is. Several of the state- approved programs normalize intimate touching, anal/oral sex and exploration of masturbation as “self-pleasure” in children as young as 10. An extensive review of 60 well-designed, broadly accepted studies of school-based CSE in 2019 found that it has little actual real-world effect and may increase the likelihood of sexual activity, pregnancy and disease in participating teens. Though experienced and exhaustive in methodology, their “evidence based,” peer reviewed material is ignored. Illinois and California have banned parents from legally opting-out due high refusal rates and many districts have integrated sexual material into multiple subjects, making it functionally unavoidable.
“Consent” frequently devolves into how to negotiate with a potential sex partner to obtain consent rather than withholding consent. Young students who refuse to comply with class mandates/activities contrary to their religious or personal beliefs have been isolated, ostracized, criticized, bullied or suspended. CSE has a poor track record, will not protect children from abuse and mandates from Olympia limit local control. Please reject Referendum 90.
Chris Beard
Mukilteo
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