Supreme Court sides with religious parents who want to avoid LGBTQ+ books in public schools

WASHINGTON − The Supreme Court on June 27 sided with a group of parents who want to withdraw their elementary school children from class when storybooks with LGBTQ+ characters are being read.

In a 6-3 decision that divided along ideological lines, the court said a Maryland public school district’s refusal to allow opt-outs burdens parents’ First Amendment right to freely exercise their religion.

They said the school must allow opt-outs while the legal challenge continues.

Writing for the majority, Justice Samuel Alito said the court has long recognized the rights of parents to direct their children's religious upbringing.

In her dissent, Justice Sonia Sotomayor said the deicsion "threatens the very essence of public education."