Disney Movie Played, US Teacher Investigated for "Promoting Homosexuality"

US Teacher Who Showed Movie 'Strange World'
"Investigated by Education Office for Alleged Indoctrination"
Depiction of Teen Boy Liking Same-Sex Friend

A teacher at an elementary school in Florida, USA, is under investigation by the state education authorities for showing students a Disney animation featuring a teenage gay character.

According to CNN and others on the 15th (local time), Jenna Bobby, a teacher at a public elementary school in Hernando County, Florida, showed the Disney animated film Strange World to 5th-grade students and is now facing an investigation by the education authorities.

The film depicts the adventures of an explorer family in an unknown world. Notably, one of the main characters, a teenage boy named Aeden Clay, is portrayed as having romantic feelings for a male friend. Aeden’s family also supports and encourages his sexual identity.

Movie 'Strange World' still cut. [Image source=World Disney Company Korea]

In response, Bobby posted a six-minute video on TikTok saying, "I am being investigated by the Florida Department of Education for showing a Disney movie and 'brainwashing' the students."

Bobby claimed that she had obtained prior permission from parents to show PG-rated (parental guidance suggested) movies. However, she added that one parent reported her to the state education department because the movie featured a gay character.

The school reportedly sent a notice to parents stating that the film would no longer be shown to students. In the notice, the school said, "There is a scene in this movie where the male protagonist shows affection toward another male protagonist," and "This movie will no longer be shown to students."

CNN pointed out that this incident stems from Florida’s so-called "Don't Say Gay" law, which prohibits teaching about sexual orientation to students in lower grades in public schools. Under this law, teachers who conduct lessons on LGBTQ+ issues in Florida may face suspension or dismissal.

Meanwhile, Bobby is reported to be a first-year teacher who started this year. She appeared before the Hernando County School Board on the 9th to present her position, and the parent who reported her to the education department also attended the meeting.