A London-based Christian organization, Christian Concern, has raised concerns about teaching resources used in numerous UK schools. These resources, developed by LGBTQ+ organization Just Like Us, suggest that LGBTQ+ lifestyles align with Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. The lesson plans, which include slides and activities, reportedly introduce same-sex relationships to students as young as five.
For students aged 7-11, activities include displaying rainbow flags and pronoun badges. Lessons also involve modifying the pronouns of pop stars like Ariana Grande and Harry Styles. Developed with LGBTQ+ faith-based groups, the curriculum teaches secondary students that the LGBTQ+ lifestyle is compatible with major Abrahamic religions. It also includes stories of LGBTQ+ individuals identifying with various faiths, including Anglican, Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim traditions.
Even math lessons for younger students incorporate discussions on gender pronouns and same-sex families. One example presents a math problem involving a same-sex couple's wedding. Data graphs about "diverse families," including those with two fathers or two mothers, are also examined by students as young as seven.
Christian Concern's head of education, Steve Beegoo, expressed worry that the resources specifically target faith-based individuals and schools, potentially steering children away from traditional beliefs. He criticized the curriculum for presenting homosexuality and transgender ideology as accepted orthodox beliefs within major religions, particularly concerning marriage and biological sex. Begoo also emphasized the importance of parental awareness regarding these teachings.
In the past, Just Like Us has garnered support from prominent UK political figures and received financial backing from companies like Facebook and JPMorgan Chase. At the time of publication, the organizations involved in developing the curriculum had not responded to requests for comment.
