Protests erupted in Colorado Springs School District 11 (D11) as students, parents, and educators voiced their opposition to a proposed policy that could forbid staff from asking students about their pronouns. The demonstration took place outside D11’s administration building on North El Paso Street, drawing around two dozen participants, predominantly students from Coronado High School.
Organized by Marynn Krull, a recent graduate of Doherty High School now attending Colorado College, the protest gained traction through social media channels. Krull utilized an Instagram account, @costudentsagainstcensorship, established in late January to raise awareness about issues within D11. The proposed ban on asking pronouns was brought to public attention during a February board meeting by D11 Board of Education Vice President Jason Jorgensen, who advocated for adding pronouns to a list of topics staff members are prohibited from discussing with students.
Jorgensen argued that inquiring about pronouns could discomfort cisgender students. Board Director Al Loma echoed this sentiment, expressing personal offense at the mention of such terms. However, their stance faced criticism from community members, including those from neighboring Manitou Springs School District 14, who converged at the protest with rainbow pride flags and placards advocating for inclusivity and opposing censorship.
Krull, daughter of a D11 teacher, denounced the proposed policy as a violation of students’ dignity and rights. She initially launched her Instagram campaign to address discussions within the district regarding the removal of library books, particularly those featuring LGBTQ themes. Krull noted a connection between this effort, led by Moms for Liberty – El Paso County, and the pronoun ban proposal, suggesting an underlying motive.
Neighbors For Education, a group advocating for public education and equity, also condemned the proposed ban, emphasizing the negative impact on students. They highlighted concerns about the biases expressed by certain board members and emphasized the need to ensure a fair and safe environment for all students.
The protest underscored the ongoing debate within D11 and broader community discourse regarding LGBTQ rights, student empowerment, and educational inclusivity. As discussions continue, stakeholders remain engaged in advocating for policies that promote diversity, respect, and dignity within educational institutions.