RESEARCH THAT MATTERS

IMPACT OF HB 1557
(FLORIDA’S DON’T
SAY GAY BILL) on
LGBTQ+ Parents in
Florida

JANUARY 2023

Abbie E. Goldberg
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On March 28, 2022, the Florida Legislature passed HB 1557, the “Parental Rights in Education” bill, also
dubbed the Don’t Say Gay bill. This bill prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender
identity before the 4th grade and requires such instruction to be “age-appropriate or developmentally
appropriate” thereafter. Many are concerned that the bill will not only result in restricted or nonexistent
education about the existence of diverse sexual and gender identities, but it will result in a chilly or
hostile school climate for LGBTQ educators, students, and families because it suggests that something
is wrong with LGBTQ identities. Based on surveys of 113 LGBTQ+ parents, this study represents a first-
look at how HB 1557 is negatively affecting LGBTQ+ parent families in the state. Almost 9 out of 10 (88%)
LGBTQ+ parents are very or somewhat concerned about the impact that HB 1557 will have on them and
their children, with one in four reporting they have experienced anti-LGBTQ harassment since the law
was passed and one in five reporting becoming less out in their communities since the law was passed.
Parents have considered a variety of coping strategies in response to the bill, including moving out of
the state (56%) and moving their children to a different school (11%). Over 16% of LGBTQ parents have
already taken steps to move their families to another state.

KEY FINDINGS
Concerns
• When asked, “How worried are you about the effects of the Don’t Say Gay bill/law on your
children and family?”, 88% of LGBTQ+ parents said they were very or somewhat worried about
the effects of the bill on their children and families.
• LGBTQ+ parents’ initial reactions to the bill ranged from fear to anger to disbelief. Over time,
even those who were initially relatively unconcerned (e.g., because they believed the bill would
not be signed into law or was unenforceable) became increasingly worried. Some considered
moving their children to private schools.
• LGBTQ+ parents voiced a variety of concerns about how Don’t Say Gay would affect their
children, including restricting them from speaking freely about their families, negatively
impacting their sense of legitimacy, and encouraging a hostile school climate that would
negatively impact their children.
• LGBTQ+ parents with LGBTQ+ children voiced intense concerns as they worried about their
children’s ability to talk freely about their own and their parents’/family’s identities. Indeed,
13% said that their children had expressed fears about the future related to living in Florida as
LGBTQ+ youth.
• LGBTQ+ parents also worried about their own ability to be involved in/volunteer at their
children’s schools.
• LGBTQ+ parents who were less concerned typically said that their children were younger (e.g.,
they were not yet in school) or their children were in private schools. By extension, parents
who expressed the greatest concern typically had school-aged children in public schools.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 2

Experiences
• LGBTQ+ parents reported that their children had already experienced a variety of impacts of
the bill. This included harassment and bullying at school because they had LGBTQ+ parents,
not being able to talk about their parents or their own LGBTQ+ identities at school or outside
of school, and fears about continuing to live in Florida.
• LGBTQ+ parents reported on their experiences over the 3–6 months prior to the survey in a
variety of areas: Almost one-quarter feared harassment by neighbors because of their sexual
orientation or gender identity or expression. Twenty-one percent of LGBTQ+ parents had
been less out in their neighborhood, workplace, or community.

Coping Strategies
• LGBTQ+ parents coped in a variety of ways, including by becoming more engaged in activism,
avoiding the news, getting support from friends and family, and planning for the future (e.g.,
moving).
• Notably, 56% of parents considered moving out of Florida and 16.5% have taken steps to
move out of Florida. Indeed, participants said that they were saving money, looking for jobs,
and exploring the housing markets outside of Florida. Many felt conflicted, however, noting
that they loved their families, friends, and communities; others said that moving was currently
impossible for them, as they were caring for older family members or other dependents or
had jobs that they could not find elsewhere.
• Other actions, beyond moving, for protecting and defending their families were also
endorsed. For example, 11% had considered moving their children to a school that is not
bound by the Don’t Say Gay law (such as a private school).
• Some participants talked about Don’t Say Gay with their (usually school-aged) children, with the
goal of clarifying what the legislation says, what it doesn’t say, and why people are concerned.
Those with young children typically did not speak with them about the legislation, and/or kept
the messaging simple and reassuring.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 3

BACKGROUND: HB 1557 (“DON’T SAY GAY”)

On March 28 2022, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis signed the “Parental Rights in Education” bill (HB
1557). This bill went into effect on July 1, 2022, and reads: “Classroom instruction by school personnel
or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through
grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students
in accordance with state standards.”1 Some legislators and parents asserted that the legislation
seeks to allow parents to determine if, when, and in what way to introduce LGBTQ related topics to
their children. Others worry that it will have a chilling effect on schools in general (beyond just K–3)
because it stigmatizes LGBTQ+ identities, and such messaging will negatively affect LGBTQ+ parents,
LGBTQ+ children, and LGBTQ+ teachers.2-3 For example, critics have pointed out that the vaguely
worded law will cause LGBTQ students and teachers to hide their identities, and teachers will avoid
teaching important topics that are not directly addressed by the law out of fear of being sued.4 Many
organizations (e.g., The Walt Disney Company, The Trevor Project) have condemned the bill.5

On July 1, 2022, the day the bill was passed into law, the White House released a statement that said:
“This is not an issue of ‘parents’ rights.’ This is discrimination, plain and simple…It encourages bullying
and threatens students’ mental health, physical safety, and well-being. It censors dedicated teachers
and educators who want to do the right thing and support their students. And it must stop.”6 The
statement further characterized the bill as part of a nation-wide trend of right right-wing politicians
targeting LGBTQ+ students, educators, and individuals to score political points. It also referenced
reports coming from Florida about schools and districts taking steps to comply with the law, such as
removing Safe Space stickers, teachers taking down family photos, etc.7

Significantly, the stance of major professional organizations have echoed that of the White House.
For example, on March 28, 2022, the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FCAAP),
which represents over 2,500 pediatricians in Florida, released a similar statement in response to
DeSantis’ signing of the bill: “The ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill…will harm Florida’s children in the classroom and
beyond. As pediatricians, we know that exploring one’s identity is a normal part of child development.
School should be a place that encourages this process for all children, offering a safe space for sharing
accurate information. By prohibiting educators from teaching lessons about sexual orientation or

1
Strauss, V. (2022, July 1). Florida’s ‘don’t say gay’ law takes effect. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.
com/education/2022/07/01/dont-say-gay-florida-law/
2
Goldstein, D. (2022, March 18). Opponents call it the Don’t Say Gay bill. Here’s what it says. New York Times. https://
www.nytimes.com/2022/03/18/us/dont-say-gay-bill-florida.html
3
Paluska, M. (2022, March 25). Parental rights? Or an attack on the LGBTQ community?: Breaking down HB1557. ABC
News. https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/full-circle/parental-rights-or-an-attack-on-the-lgbtq-community-breaking-
down-hb1557
4
Strauss, V. (2022, July 1). Florida’s ‘don’t say gay’ law takes effect. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.
com/education/2022/07/01/dont-say-gay-florida-law/
5
Diaz, J. (2022, March 28). Ron DeSantis signs the co-called ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill. NPR. https://www.npr.
org/2022/03/28/1089221657/dont-say-gay-florida-desantis)
6
The White House. (2022, July 1). Statement by Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre on Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” Law Taking
Effect. [Press release]. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/07/01/statement-by-
press-secretary-karine-jean-pierre-on-floridas-dont-say-gay-law-taking-effect/
7
Strauss, supra note 5.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 4

gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, this law will deprive children of the opportunity
to learn from trusted teachers and to feel supported in their school community.”8 The president of
the American Psychological Association, which is the leading scientific and professional organization
representing psychologists in the U.S., with over 133,000 members, also condemned the bill.9

Although much of the media attention has focused on the implications of the law for LGBTQ+ youth
and LGBTQ+ teachers, LGBTQ+ parents also represent a group that will be affected by the law.
LGBTQ+ parents have voiced concern that their children will be restricted from talking about their
families at school, as well as from drawing pictures and completing writing assignments that feature
their families.10 This type of exclusion communicates to children that their families are not legitimate
or valued—and, in turn, neither are they. LGBTQ+ parents worry, too, that the bill will create a chilling
effect in classrooms across Florida, regardless of the children’s age, such that teachers might feel
unable or unwilling to even acknowledge the existence of a student’s LGBTQ+-parent family.11 Indeed,
laws may be misunderstood or misinterpreted such that their implementation may go beyond or
deviate from the actual language of the statute.

IMPACT OF ANTI-LGBTQ LEGISLATION ON LGBTQ+ CHILDREN AND

PARENTS
Research has established that anti-LGBTQ legislation has both direct and indirect effects on LGBTQ+
parents and their mental health, in part via its effects on social climate, including community,
neighborhood, and school climate.12-13 LGBTQ people living in states with nondiscrimination policies
that fail to include sexual orientation, for example, have been found to perceive a more negative
environment and to experience more minority stress.14 LGBTQ adoptive parents who live in states
with more favorable rulings related to LGBTQ parenthood and adoption report better mental health
than those living in states with a history of unfavorable rulings.15

Likewise, both children of LGBTQ parents (Power et al., 2014) and LGBTQ youth have been found
to report greater victimization when they live in communities and attend schools that they perceive

8
Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (2022, March 16). FCAAP encourages governor to veto “Don’t Say
Gay” bill. [Press release]. https://www.fcaap.org/posts/news/press-releases/florida-chapter-of-the-american-academy-
of-pediatrics-encourages-governor-to-veto-the-dont-say-gay-bill/
9
American Psychological Association (2022, March 9). APA president condems Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill. [Press release].
https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2022/03/florida-dont-say-gay
10
Luterman, S. (2022, March 28) . LGBTQ+ parents fear the impacts of Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill. The 19th News.
https://19thnews.org/2022/03/florida-dont-say-gay-bill-lgbtq-parents-worried-impacts/
11
Id.
12
Goldberg, A. E., & Smith, J. Z. (2011). Stigma, social context, and mental health: lesbian and gay couples across the
transition to adoptive parenthood. Journal of counseling psychology, 58(1), 139–150. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0021684
13
Goldberg, A. E., & Garcia, R. (2020). Community Characteristics, Victimization, and Psychological Adjustment Among
School-Aged Adopted Children With Lesbian, Gay, and Heterosexual Parents. Frontiers in psychology, 11, 372. https://doi.
org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00372
14
Riggle, E. D., Rostosky, S. S., & Horne, S. G. (2010). Psychological distress, well-being, and legal recognition in same-
sex couple relationships. ournal of family psychology : JFP : journal of the Division of Family Psychology of the American
Psychological Association (Division 43), 24(1), 82–86. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0017942
15
Goldberg & Smith, supra note 13.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 5

to be hostile to LGBTQ identities.16-17 Additionally, LGBTQ people who reside in more conservative
communities report lower social inclusion and belongingness and poorer health than those in more
progressive areas. 18-19 Further, amidst evidence that residents of the Southern and Midwestern
regions of the U.S. report less tolerant attitudes toward LGBTQ people than those in other regions,
it is perhaps unsurprising that LGBTQ youth living in the South and Midwest report higher levels of
victimization in school related to their gender expression compared to LGBTQ youth in the Northeast.
20-21
This highlights how schools may reflect the norms and attitudes of the regions in which they are
located, as well as the specific laws and policies introduced or passed in their states or regions.

Given the anxieties of LGBTQ+ parents reported by media reports surrounding the Don’t Say Gay
bill, and research evidence pointing to the many effects associated with anti-LGBTQ legislation for
both parents and children, this project sought to understand LGBTQ+ parents’ feelings and concerns
related to the bill/law, as well as how they were talking to their children about it, and their plans for
the future (e.g., staying in Florida).

16
Paceley, M., Goffnett, J., & Gandy-Guedes, M. (2017). Impact of victimization, community climate, and community
size on mental health of sexual and gender minority youth. Journal of Community Psychology, 45(3), 658–671. https://doi.
org/10.1177/0044118X19856141
17
Power, J., Brown, R., Schofield, M., Pitts, M., McNair, R., & Bickerdike, A. (2014). Social connectedness among
lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender parents living in metropolitan and regional and rural areas of Australia and New
Zealand. Journal of Community Psychology, 42(7), 869–889. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcop.21658
18
Hatzenbuehler, M. L., Flores, A. R., & Gates, G. J. (2017). Social attitudes regarding same-sex marriage and LGBT health
disparities: results from a national probability sample. Journal of Social Issues, 73(3), 508–528. https://doi.org/10.1111/
josi.12229
19
Metheny, N., & Stephenson, R. (2018). Political environment and perceptions of social inclusion after nationwide
marriage equality among partnered men who have sex with men in the USA. Sexuality Research & Social Policy, 16(4),
521–528. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-018-0357-6
20
Baunach, D. M. (2012). Changing same-sex marriage attitudes in America from 1988 through 2010. Public Opinion Q.
76(2), 364–378. https://doi.org/10.1093/poq/nfs022
21
Kosciw, J. G., & Diaz, E. M. (2008). Involved, Invisible, Ignored: The Experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender
Parents and their Children in our Nation’s K-12 Schools. New York, NY: GLSEN.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 6

FINDINGS
DEMOGRAPHICS
A broad representation of genders, sexual orientations, and geographic locales was achieved. This
sample of LGBTQ+ parents (N = 113) was largely made up of cisgender women (73, 64.6%). Almost
one-quarter were cisgender men (26, 23.0%). In addition, there were five nonbinary individuals,
two trans women, and five who indicated “something else” for their gender (e.g., womon), with two
missing. Regarding sexual orientation, 60 (53.1%) identified as lesbian, 24 (21.2%) gay, 13 (11.5%)
bisexual, six (5.3%) queer, and nine “something else” (e.g., pansexual, lesbian/queer), with one
missing. A total of 68 (60.2%) identified as White, 35 (31.0%) identified as Latinx, three (2.7%) Black,
three (2.7%) Asian, one (.9%) American Indian or Alaska Native, with one indicating something else
(Jewish), and two missing. The sample is somewhat more likely to be Hispanic and less likely to be
Black or Asian when compared to data on Florida’s population as a whole: according to 2020 US
Census data, 61.6% of Florida residents were White only, 18.7% Hispanic, 12.4% Black only, and 6%
Asian only (Florida Census, 2020).22

Two participants (1.8%) had a high school diploma/GED, 13 (11.5%) some college or an associate’s
degree, 31 (27.4%) a college degree, 35 (31.0%) a master’s degree, and 31 (27.4%) a PhD/MD/JD, with
one missing. Just five (4.4%) made a combined (family) income of under $50K; 20 (17.7%) indicated
that their family income was $50K-$100K, 26 (23.0%) indicated $101K-$150K, 20 (17.7%) indicated
$151K-$200K, 10 (8.8%) indicated $201-$250K, and 30 (26.5%) reported a family income of over $250K,
with two missing. They were somewhat more affluent than the average resident in Florida, where the
average household income is about $83K (Income by Zip Code, 2022). Most described themselves as
middle-class (41, 36.2%) or upper middle class (43, 38.1%), with fewer indicating upper (18, 15.9%) or
working (9, 8.0%) class statuses, and just one (.9%) indicating lower class, with two missing. Most (86,
76.1%) worked full-time, with six (5.3%) working part-time, three (2.7%) unemployed, and two (1.8%)
students. Eleven (9.7%) were homemakers, and the remainder said something else (e.g., retired).

Most (90, 79.6%) were married, with 10 (8.8%) partnered but not married. Nine (8.0%) were divorced
or separated. Three (2.7%) identified as polyamorous. Fifty-six (49.6%) were biological parents to at
least one child, 31 (27.4%) were nonbiological (e.g., via insemination) and legal parents to at least one
child, and 33 (29.2%) were adoptive parents to at least one child. Smaller numbers were stepparents
(5, 4.4%) and foster parents (4, 3.5%). Fifty-three (46.9%) had one child; 45 (39.8%) had two children;
and 15 (13.3%) had 3+ children, with five missing. Across all 113 families, respondents were the
parents of 188 children: 90 cisgender girls, 88 cisgender boys, and 10 trans/nonbinary children.
Respondents were parents of 78 children under the age of six, 70 children age 6–17, and 24 children
18+, with 16 missing. (All parents of 18+ year olds had at least one child under 18, per selection
criteria). Respondents were parents of 91 White children, 24 Latinx children, 18 biracial children, 10
Black children, seven multiracial or “mixed” children, two Asian children, and one Native Hawaiian
child, with 35 missing.

22
U.S. Census Bureau. (2020). FLORIDA: 2020 Census. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/library/stories/state-by-
state/florida-population-change-between-census-decade.html
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 7

Politically, the sample largely identified as Democrats (90, 79.6%), with nine (8.0%) identifying as
Independents, five (4.4%) as Republicans, and one as Green Party (.9%). Five indicated something else
(e.g., no party affiliation, Socialist, Libertarian), with three missing.

Geographically, the sample resided in a few key counties. Almost half lived in either Miami-Dade
County (30, 26.5%; e.g., Miami) or Broward County (23, 20.4%; e.g., Fort Lauderdale). Smaller numbers
of participants resided in Alachua County (10, 8.8%; e.g., Gainesville); Leon County (7, 6.2%; e.g.,
Tallahassee); and Palm Beach County (7, 6.2%; e.g., Boca Raton). A few participants resided in Pinellas
County (5, 4.4%), Seminole County (4, 3.5%), Orange County (3, 2.7%), and Saint Lucie County (3, 2.7%).
Between 1–2 respondents lived in an additional 13 counties.

Table 1. Sample demographics

N (%)
Gender
Cisgender women 73 (64.6%)
Cisgender men 26 (23.0%)
Trans/nonbinary/something else 12 (10.6%)
Sexual orientation
Lesbian 60 (53.1%)
Gay 24 (21.2%)
Bisexual 13 (11.5%)
Queer 6 (5.3%)
Something else 9 (8.0%)
Race
White 68 (60.2%)
Latinx 35 (31.0%)
Black 3 (2.7%)
Asian 3 (2.7%)
Something else 2 (1.8%)
Education
Less than a college education 15 (13.3%)
College degree or higher 97 (85.8%)
Family Income
<$100K 25 (22.1%)
$101K-$200K 46 (40.7%)
$201K+ 30 (35.4%)
Married 90 (79.6%)
Number of Children
One 53 (46.9%)
Two 45 (39.8%)
Three or more 15 (13.3%)
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 8

CONCERNS
Responses to Don’t Say Gay
Respondents were also asked, in an open-ended question, about their initial reactions to the Don’t
Say Gay Bill, when it was proposed, and how, if relevant, their reactions and worries evolved over time
(e.g., as it gained traction in the press and was eventually signed into law). Fear and worry were the
most frequently mentioned initial responses (n = 35). Anger/fury was also often articulated (n = 21),
with respondents noting the senselessness and unnecessary nature of the targeting and exclusion
conveyed by the bill. Shock/horror (n = 15) (“the thought that this is happening in 2022 is mind-
blowing”; “I was shocked that my state would implement such hateful laws that would exclude my
family and make our kids feel less than in school”) were also common. Disbelief and confusion (n =
10) were also mentioned relatively often (“with everything going on in the world and especially in our
country, why are we focusing on this?” Other common responses were sadness (n = 9), horror (n = 7),
disappointment (n = 7), disgust (n = 5), and denial (n = 2). Five people noted that they were not initially
very concerned, as they believed that age-appropriate materials should be taught in classrooms: “Our
daughter knew from toddlerhood that we were her parents and she had two dads; she didn’t need a
teacher explaining that to her.”) Six people were initially not very concerned, believing that that the bill
would not get much traction and/or would prove to be “unenforceable.”

“I worried initially that it would re-inflame culture wars and re-ignite anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes.
I worried it would make the climate more hostile for my kids. As it continued, and as the
rhetoric escalated…I became more concerned. I worried that as a parent volunteer I may
confront conservative parents who perceive me as a groomer. I worried that my kids would
be facing anti-gay comments from their peers, especially related to my gender expression and
also my work. I worried that our family could be targeted and reported to child protective
services with false assertions about our parenting based merely on our relationship. In a
nutshell, the language of the policies and the rhetoric supporting them made me concerned
that I could be realistically facing losing my kids and my ability to be an engaged parent.”

Those parents who articulated their feelings over time frequently noted that their concern grew,
such that they became more worried and anxious regarding how the bill would affect their children,
noting that it could very well have the effect of creating, normalizing, and encouraging discrimination.
For some parents their growing fears motivated them to consider switching their children to private
school, and to homeschooling, with several now seriously considering moving, as they became more
uncertain about “whether or not we can continue to raise our family in this state.” Some parents did
more research to address and hopefully quell their fears. Some of them felt reassured by what they
learned or concluded: “Once I read the actual bill, it allayed some of my fears. I am okay with and
support the idea of not teaching or telling young children (under third grade) [about LGBTQ people
or sexuality], however, I am concerned that the ‘age appropriate and developmentally appropriate’
part is too vague and could be interpreted too loosely.” Notably, some of those who were initially not
concerned ultimately came to feel frustrated and worried, “as I believe down the road it will lead to
more and more discrimination.”
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 9

“I felt it promoted an agenda that there is something ‘not right’ or harmful for children to be
aware that some people make different choices and have families that are diverse. Further,
it is harmful to those children who have same-sex or non-binary parents or relatives by
promoting the idea that their families are undesirable or unsavory. It broke my heart to see
our state go back to a restrictive past.”

Concerns
When asked, “How worried are you about the effects of the Don’t Say Gay bill/law on your children and
family?”, 53 (58.9%) of the parents said very, 26 (28.9%) said somewhat, five (4.4%) said neutral, two
(2.2%) said not very, and five (5.6%) said not at all (90 responding, 23 missing).

When asked specifically about their concerns about their children, many parents emphasized their
worries that this bill would not only restrict their children’s ability to speak freely about their families
in the classroom, but would inevitably impact their children’s sense of self and sense of safety vis-
a-vis cultivating a climate where their families were seen as “less than.” Bullying was frequently
mentioned as a concern, and a few parents worried about violence against their children or families.
Some parents underscored the negative consequences that a hostile or restrictive school climate
would have on children’s mental health and self-esteem. Some noted that their children were also
LGBTQ+, and this would impact them in multiple ways, including not feeling safe to express their own
identities, in addition to those of their parents/families: “My concerns in general are that my children’s
experience is now required to be invisible. The youngest is openly queer. When will they focus on the
kids for talking about their own identity? Are they going to start arresting kids with rainbow T-shirts
that say ‘love is love’?”

“I’m concerned that [my daughter] will not be able talk freely with teachers, friends or in
assignments about our family dynamic and it will cause her shame. I’m afraid that she will
be bullied and that this law only causes children AND adults to further believe that LGBTQ
people are someone to be afraid of or ashamed of. I’m also concerned that if she happens to
be LGBTQ herself that she will feel the horrible shame I felt growing up that was pushed on
me through religion and societal conventions such as gay jokes I always heard growing up. I
don’t want her or anyone to ever feel the pain and shame I felt growing up and I don’t want
any of them to ever lose out on their lives because of either suicidal actions or being in the
closet so long that they miss out for years. My partner says she feels the exact same fears.”

“I want my daughter to feel safe to go anywhere in the state. LatinX is visible, for example. And
if she loves someone that is not a cisgender male, this may also become an issue according
to current societal energies…We want our children to have self-esteem, feel self-love, be
confident, feel welcomed to talk about any topic, have love and compassion for others from
different backgrounds and identities, and love whomever they wish. These bills deter that in
my opinion. They are not in-line with my values. The result of these bills affect all the above
mentioned areas for our children. I especially think of students that identify as LGBTQ+ in
school settings, especially in high school, with no support. I worry about anxiety, depression
and suicide. These bills contribute to the mental health issues that exacerbate these terrible
things and random shootings fueled by hate as well. These bills have a negative effect.”
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 10

Parents also worried about their own ability to be involved at school (e.g., would they be ostracized)
and acceptance of them and their families within the school community (e.g., would other parents
suddenly balk at allowing their children to attend birthday parties at their home). Parents who
expressed the greatest concern typically had school-aged children in public schools.

“The Don’t Say Gay bill claims to be for parent rights, but my rights have been taken away
since its passage. My right to send my daughter to school freely, my right to live without fear
of who I am, my right to not be discriminated against based on my sexual orientation, and
my daughter to not be discriminated against based on her parents’ sexual orientation.”

Parents of children in private school, and parents of very young or older (e.g., high school age)
children expressed concern, but less intense worries. That is, these parents were less worried
given that (a) private schools were not bound to the same rules as public schools, (b) very young
children were not yet in school so parents hoped that the bill might be “overturned” or be proven
unenforceable, and (c) older children were almost done with school, and, their sense of self was more
firmly established and less vulnerable to the bill itself and its indirect impacts. Said one parent, “My
partner and I don’t have concern since she is already 17. Luckily she is in a private high school and
about to graduate next year. She has been emboldened to help fight against anti-LGBTQ legislation
and can’t wait to leave the state to go to college somewhere with more liberal settings.” Indeed,
several participants noted that their high school aged children would certainly attend college outside
of Florida, and some with very young children planned to move before their children started school
(“We are concerned that going to school will be challenging for our young children. As a result, we
plan to move to another state”).

EXPERIENCES AND PERCEIVED IMPACTS

When asked about impacts or changes they had observed so far, since the introduction or passing of
the bill, some noted that the changes they had observed began during the Trump administration. Said
one respondent, “The shift started during the Trump election and administration. Gradually getting
worse. Then the governor started being vicious to anything ‘woke.’ He is controlling and is eliminating
rights left and right, and the masses love him.” Some observed specific changes, such as “They are
banning certain books and controlling teachers’, especially LGBTQ teachers’, speech.” A few noted that
their children, often very young, seemed to be showing the effects of a shifting climate. “Not much that
I can see. But, for the first time he said to us the other day that some people do not like ‘gay families.’
He said he heard it in school but could not tell me from whom.” Still others were cautiously optimistic
about the limited or muted nature of the changes ahead, such as, “Our kids just started school and
have started a family tree project, and so far they have been able to show pictures of our family.”

Those who homeschooled or whose children attended private school expressed more positive
experiences, noting that their children were in more progressive and/or protected environments. Said
one respondent, “Fortunately, our son is in a private school so we are sheltered a bit from the direct
impact of the Don’t Say Gay bill. But, the general political climate in Florida is scary. Living in Miami
makes it a bit easier as there are plenty of open-minded, accepting people in this part of Florida,
though this is obviously not always the case.”
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 11

Impacts on Children
Respondents were asked about various specific things that had happened to their children in the 3–6
months before the survey, which approximated the time period wherein the bill was introduced. They
responded to a series of closed-ended questions and indicated whether each item had occurred:

Table 2. Children’s experiences and worries

PAST 3-6 MONTHS (N=91) N (%)

My child/ren were bullied, teased, or harassed at school for having LGBTQ parents 4 (4.4%)
My child/ren were bullied, teased, or harassed outside of school for having LGBTQ parents 2 (2.2%)
My child/ren worried about talking openly at school about having LGBTQ parents 14 (15.4%)
My child/ren worried about talking openly outside of school about having LGBTQ parents 11 (12.1%)
My child/ren expressed fears about the future related to living in Florida with LGBTQ
8 (8.8%)
parents
My child/ren were bullied, teased, or harassed at school for their own LGBTQ identities 5 (5.5%)
My child/ren were bullied, teased, or harassed outside of school for their own LGBTQ
2 (2.2%)
identities
My child/ren were bullied, teased, or harassed at school for their racial, ethnic, or cultural
3 (3.3%)
identities (or presumed identities)
My child/ren were bullied, teased, or harassed outside of school for their racial, ethnic, or
0 (0%)
cultural identities (or presumed identities)
My child/ren worried about talking openly at school about their own LGBTQ identities 8 (8.8%)
My child/ren worried about talking openly outside of school about their own LGBTQ
5 (5.5%)
identities
My child/ren expressed fears about the future related to living in Florida as LGBTQ kids 12 (13.2%)
My child/ren were redirected or reprimanded by a teacher related to what they shared
1 (1.1%)
about their family/having LGBTQ parents
My child/ren were punished at school related to what they shared about their family/
0 (0.0%)
having LGBTQ parents
Other experiences that your children have had? 31 (34.1%)
Teachers have said they don’t care about the law, will continue to teach in the same way 1
Children are in private school; teachers/peers are supportive 2
Children feel like “freaks” 1
Child knows not to talk about family 1
Harassment, peer conflict, gossiping 4
Child physically assaulted by peers 1
Children have experienced harassment at their place of employment 1
Child has expressed wanting to move 1
N/A; children too young to be impacted; I worry, though 15
N/A; we live in progressive and/or supportive environment/we haven’t exposed children to
5
settings where this could occur
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 12

When asked to elaborate on their relationships with their children’s teachers, most people/
respondents/parents said that they had good relationships with their children’s teachers, felt
accepted by them, and did not perceive a change in their treatment towards them or their family. A
few noted, too, that their children’s teachers were LGBTQ+ themselves, which felt both reassuring and
concerning (e.g., they were confident that these teachers would support and advocate for their family,
but worried about their children’s teachers being fired on multiple levels). Some parents said they did
not have any real relationship with their children’s teachers, often because their children were older
(e.g., in high school). A few said they purposefully avoided interacting with or sharing anything about
their family with teachers because of concerns about poor treatment or retaliation towards their
children. Several respondents said that they had inquired about how teachers and administrators
were planning to “implement” the directives associated with the legislation and received less than
clear or reassuring responses (“they didn’t have answers”; “time will tell how much pressure they’ll
face”). One parent believed that a teacher had retaliated against her child, giving the child poorer
grades than their peers because of their parents’ sexual orientation. One parent felt that teachers had
questioned and judged her parenting more negatively because she was gay.

Impacts on Parents
Parents were also asked about whether a variety of things had happened to them in the 3–6 months
before the survey—that is, whether they had feared or experienced harassment at work or in their
communities; whether they had considered or actively taken steps to move out of Florida or switch
their children to a new school; whether they had been less out; and whether they had participated in
a protest or demonstration against the Don’t Say Gay bill.

Table 3. Parents’ experiences and worries

PAST 3-6 MONTHS (N=91) N (%)

I was scared of being harassed or bothered by neighbors because of my sexual
21 (23.1%)
orientation or gender identity or expression
I was harassed or bothered by neighbors because of my sexual orientation or gender
6 (6.6%)
identity or expression
I was scared of being harassed or bothered by coworkers or supervisors because of my
6 (6.6.%)
sexual orientation or gender identity or expression
I was harassed or bothered by coworkers or supervisors because of my sexual
2 (2.2%)
orientation or gender identity or expression
I considered moving out of Florida 51 (56.0%)
“I considered moving back to NY since we moved down here. I will never go back in the closet
and am allowed to be here and live just like everyone else.”

“We are looking into options to sell our home and move out of the state. It does not feel that
it would be safe to continue living in Florida.”
I actively took steps to move/plan to move out of Florida 15 (16.5%)
I considered moving my child to a new school 10 (11.0%)
I actively took steps to move/am moving my child to a new school 3 (3.3%)
I was less “out” in my neighborhood, workplace, or community (e.g., I am less quick
to share details of my personal life; I don’t hold my partner’s hand in public; I took off 19 (20.9%)
rainbow bumper stickers on my car)
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 13

PAST 3–6 MONTHS (N=91) N (%)

“My anxiety has ramped up to the point that I don’t sleep well at night. We were afraid to
attend local Pride events and have been afraid to really go anywhere in general.”

“Our next door neighbors are founders of a…hate group…which makes it difficult to live in
such close proximity to them.”

“I generally feel cautious just not knowing how or what people may say.”

“I am more cautious talking to strangers about my family situation. I present as pretty

obviously queer, so that is another source of stress. All my life I’ve had to deal with anxiety in
public bathrooms and people misgendering me and reacting negatively when they found out
I’m a woman and I’m gay.”

“I don’t feel safe any longer holding my wife’s hand in public.”

“I stopped discussing my family at work.”

“We used to have equality stickers on our cars, but I’m afraid of retaliation”

“We didn’t join our son’s PTO and we didn’t offer to coach Little League this spring.”

“We are very, very cautious about having play dates.”

I participated in a protest or demonstration against the “Don’t Say Gay” bill 20 (22.0%)
Something else 18 (20.0%)
I associate less with non LGBTQ folks in my everyday life 1
I considered homeschooling 2
I donated money to organizations challenging these laws 2
I am intentionally more out (e.g., put stickers on car, flags on house; “we need to resist,
6
not acquiesce to these racist and homophobic laws”)
Other forms of activism (e.g., led community town hall) 1
None 4

Additionally, parents were asked about whether they had witnessed increased hostility towards
LGBTQ people, in various domains, across several time frames: the last 3–6 months; since 2016 (i.e.,
when Trump was elected president); and since 2020 (i.e., the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic,
and a time of political upheaval amidst the contested election of 2020 and the election of President
Biden); or some other time frame.

Table 4. Perceptions of hostility towards LGBTQ people across different time periods

YES, I HAVE WITNESSED INCREASED PAST 3–6 SINCE 2016 SINCE 2020 SOME OTHER
HOSTILITY TOWARDS LGBTQ PEOPLE, IN… MOS (N=91) (N=91) (N=91) TIME FRAME

Local media 14 (15.4%) 14 (15.4%) 17 (18.7%) 1 (1.1%)

National media 14 (15.4%) 16 (17.6%) 24 (26.4%) 1 (1.1%)
My children’s schools 6 (6.6%) 3 (3.3%) 4 (4.4%) 1 (1.1%)
My workplace 6 (6.6%) 5 (5.5%) 4 (4.4%) 0
My neighborhood 3 (3.3%) 10 (11.0%) 4 (4.4%) 1 (1.1%)
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 14

YES, I HAVE WITNESSED INCREASED PAST 3–6 SINCE 2016 SINCE 2020 SOME OTHER
HOSTILITY TOWARDS LGBTQ PEOPLE, IN… MOS (N=91) (N=91) (N=91) TIME FRAME
My community 8 (8.8%) 15 (16.5%) 9 (9.9%) 1 (1.1%)
State politics 22 (24.2%) 29 (31.9%) 25 (27.5%) 1 (1.1%)
My friends 1 (1.1%) 2 (2.2%) 2 (2.2%) 0
My extended family 3 (3.3%) 4 (4.4%) 7 (7.7%) 3 (3.3%)
Some other domain

Social media (3)

FOX news (1) 3 (3.3%) 5 (5.5%) 0 0

Supreme Court (1)

Siblings (1)

Note: Some other time frame was specified as “since forever”, “in the past year,” and “since the Dobbs decision on abortion”

“It feels more and more hostile. I elected not to attend a local Pride family event this weekend
due to an increase in protests and threats around the country. Feels like we’ve been ignored
by both sides in the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ debate; focus has been on straight parents vs. LGBT adults
or students, but not LGBT parents. Most arguments pose families/parents/children as being
‘opposite’, not part of, the LGBT community. I’m also fearful of new FL legislation that would
target LGBT parents for abuse investigations/loss of custody based on bigoted beliefs that we
are inherently sexual or a danger to kids just for being LGBT.”

“It is absolutely terrifying living in Florida and it has gotten progressively worse. We have been
discriminated against and verbally attacked in the past in Florida. Now that we have kids, we
are much more concerned about our safety and the well-being of our kids.”

“It is hard to relay the sense of threat many of us feel and the expectation of possible violence
in Florida. But it is present.”

COPING
Again, most of the sample was either very worried (53, 58.9%) or somewhat worried (26, 28.9%)
about the effects of the Don’t Say Gay bill/law on their children and family. When asked, in an open-
ended question, how they had coped with their worries, respondents named several key strategies.
A frequently used coping strategy was engaging in activism around Don’t Say Gay: 25 parents made
efforts to engage in increased activism (“becoming active with organizations that are challenging these
laws”), including donating money to organizations fighting Don’t Say Gay and voting. Notably, some
of these participants spoke to how their parenting and activism served as means of queer resistance
and empowerment for them and their families.

“Our county has become a focus of political intervention in the state and so they witness these
debates playing out in the paper, online, and in our comments in the house. They witness us
speaking up, writing letters to the editor, and appearing at school board meetings.”
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 15

“We do our best to instill the right things in our children to help them grow to be kind collective
members of society. As queer parents we do this all in spite of a society that actively tries to
silence us. But what they do not understand is that we also raise our children to scream
above the silence and fight for the right to love and exist without persecution. [They] are still
trying to push a white heteronormative narrative onto our rainbow queer world.”

Another frequent coping strategy was avoiding the news: indeed, 23 parents said that they were
avoiding the news, with some saying that they avoided social media specifically. Others drew on social
support from friends (n = 23) or family (n = 11). Some of those who drew on support from friends
mentioned connecting with, talking to, and getting support from other LGBTQ+ families/friends
specifically. For others, planning for the future and an eventual departure from Florida served as a
way to cope with anxiety: seven people said that they had explored job opportunities outside of the
state and/or real estate options outside of the state (“planning an escape route”; “making plans and
researching options to sell our house so we can move”). Seven mentioned efforts to be more visible
and “out” (e.g., wearing clothing, stickers, or pins that signify LGBTQ+ identity or support). Finally, six
people mentioned isolation, including separating from friends who “I ethically cannot be friends with.”

It is notable that in the context of describing how they had coped with their worries about Don’t Say
Gay, some respondents mentioned that that they had already struggled with depression and anxiety
(i.e., before the bill was introduced). “I personally already suffer from PTSD and anxiety, so it has
made it so much more difficult to deal with these things.” Six participants, on the other hand, were
very dismissive of the relevance of or need for coping, saying, for example, “I’m not worried. There has
always been some anti-LGBTQ feelings in Florida, but I don’t think/feel they’re getting worse.”

Living in Florida and Leaving Florida

When asked their primary reasons for living in Florida, 55 parents (48.7%) indicated that they lived in
Florida to remain close to family and friends; 53 parents (46.9%) indicated employment/job related
reasons; 43 parents (38.1%) indicated that it was where they grew up; 34 parents (30.1%) said weather
(e.g., warmth); 18 parents (15.9%) said things to do (e.g., beaches, Disney World); 17 parents (15.0%)
said diversity; 11 parents (9.7%) invoked cost of living, reduced taxes; and 15 parents cited other
reasons. These reasons included convenience of air travel, it is a conservative state, divorce/custody
arrangement, kids are in high school/waiting for kids to graduate, and love for city/state.

When asked about the major downsides of living in Florida, 84 (74.3%) said the political climate, 60
(53.1%) said bills/legislation, 38 (33.6%) said cost of living, 30 (26.5%) said weather (e.g., heat, natural
disasters), 22 (19.5%) indicated that it was far from where they grew up and/or family, and six (5.3%)
cited tourism. Eighteen indicated other reasons, and often listed multiple reasons. These were often
specific forms of legislation, such as Don’t Say Gay (18), anti-abortion legislation (6), “Stop Woke”
legislation (6), anti-trans legislation (2), and general DeSantis/current administration (8). Participants
also listed general concerns with conservative and “toxic” legislation and bills, especially those that
targeted LGBTQ people, education, and women’s health. A few commented on non-political aspects of
living in Florida as downsides, such as weak infrastructure, overpopulation, and cost of living (e.g., low
salaries, high cost of parking).
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 16

One key coping strategy was to leave or consider leaving Florida. Fifty-one participants (56.0%) agreed
with the statement, “I considered moving out of Florida.” In order to obtain more details regarding
participants’ intentions to remain in or leave Florida, participants were asked, in an open-ended
manner, whether they had considered moving or wished they could move, how realistic this was, what
steps they had taken, what was holding them back, and what they were giving up if they moved.

Ten respondents said that this was very realistic, explaining that they were actively saving money,
looking for jobs, and exploring the housing market. Said one respondent, “We are looking at Colorado
and researching home purchase and licensure endorsement, and also looking at cost of private
schools for the two youngest. Currently, we are running scenarios where we leave and the other
where we put the girls in private school. It’s a cost benefit analysis.” Five participants said they were
looking into moving out of the country, with three noting dual citizenship of themselves or their
partners: “Should Trump (again) or DeSantis become president, we have an exit plan to move out of
the country.” Seven participants said that they wanted to move, and planned to in the future, but were
waiting for specific milestones to occur (e.g., finishing fertility treatment; having the baby they were
pregnant with; children to be school-aged; children to graduate high school; retirement). Said one,
“We plan to wait about one year. We have begun looking at houses in other states…[I’m pregnant] and
we don’t want to move when I’d have to find a new OBGYN in the new location.”

“We have done research and reached out to realtors and people selling or renting homes in
some of the locations that we would be interested in moving. We have held off on putting our
house on the market, but we are prepping it to get it ready to sell. Family is the biggest thing
holding us back. We both grew up in south Florida and have older parents, one who is quite
ill. We also feel that the bond between our son and family…is important. We have built a life
here and have friends that we would be leaving…My wife would be losing many years in the
public school system, but we do not see how she will be able to return to work here due to
this legislation. Unfortunately, I do not see how we will be able to stay here for much longer.”

“It’s very realistic. I was in the process of buying an office and opening my own practice when
the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Bill passed. I decided to not move forward with the purchase. I have spent
$20,000 dollars traveling to look as practices to purchase in LGBTQ+ friendly states, speaking
to attorneys, applying for other state licenses, etc. We are giving up everything. Our lives and
my career is here. We want to stay and fight, but I’m not sure it’s best for my children.”

“I have made a packing list of things that we would need if we needed to make a quick exit
from the area. I have become increasingly paranoid that we will have to seek asylum or
something to be safe.”

Indeed, many participants felt torn—they loved their communities of friends and family (six), beautiful
homes (two) and/or great jobs (two) while at the same time bemoaning the political climate, and in
some cases, the high cost of living in Florida. They felt that they were engaged in an unwanted and
unpleasant cost-benefit analysis. Said one, “We have been on the job market for the past five years
and have gotten increasingly less picky about the jobs we would apply to as the political climate
towards LGBTQIA+ individuals worsens.”
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 17

“I am terrified that I would need to make the decision to leave Florida and leave my parents.
The idea of having to leave to protect my child and my partner and I is scary but one I am
willing to do. It is just another reminder that LGBTQ truly are not safe anywhere and we are
unable to achieve true happiness. Very sad.”
Some felt that moving was currently difficult to envision as they had too many ties and obligations
rooting them in Florida, such as extended family, caregiving for older parents, children with serious
disabilities or physical difficulties, parents’ own health issues and disabilities, and jobs that would be
difficult to find elsewhere. A few said they loved Florida and did not intend to ever move, and one said
that they believed in fighting for LGBTQ+ and other rights and would stay in Florida to do so.

Communicating With Children

Participants were asked, in an open-ended manner, if they had talked to their children about Don’t
Say Gay (or other bills/legislation), and if so, what they had said. Those who had discussed Don’t Say
Gay with their (usually school-aged) children did so with the goal of clarifying what the legislation says,
what it doesn’t say, and why people are concerned. Some described their conversations with their
school-aged children. For example:

“My kids are fairly sophisticated with their thoughts and arguments. We talk about implications
of the laws, at some point we talk about the disbelief we have that our country is going in
this direction. We sometimes talk about what we could possibly do other than vote and/or
escape.”

“We have not spelled out the specifics of the bill and what it states to our kids. We have
had discussions about the possibilities of someone telling them not to discuss having two
dads. If that happens, they need to let us know right away. I will also be having a very quick
conversation with her teacher to make sure there are no worries or concerns I need to be
aware of.”

“Our son is 16 and contributes to our conversations openly and thoughtfully. He is very
liberal, just like us, so conversations are engaging but we are all on the same page.”

“We have had frank discussions and we have also talked to some of the teachers in our
county. I have explained to my daughter what types of actions we are trying to take to
challenge the law and to make sure more people understand how the Republican government
is scapegoating and demonizing LGBTQ people.”

“We read a children’s book about the Stonewall Inn and the start of Pride. I talked about how
there are people still today trying to hurt LGBTQ people and families and to just let me know
if they ever have any problems with kids or grownups at school or after school. My kids are 7
and 9. I haven’t addressed this at all with the two year old or baby yet. We also talk about how
crazy it is that anyone could have a problem with our amazing family that is so full of love.”

A few parents noted that their children were “aware” and “upset” and had joined them in their
activism: “She helps sell the stickers I made, so she’s aware. She’s only 10, middle school might get
more awful. We are very open but don’t want her to worry either. So we take it one day at a time.”
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 18

Several of those with queer or trans children shared that their children were generally more
concerned about how the legislation would affect them because of their own identities (versus
those of their families/parents): “I discussed ‘Don’t Say Gay’ legislation with my nonbinary child and
explained to her what the legislation says, doesn’t say, and the implications. I think I alleviated some
of her worst fears, but she still feels persecuted. My son (cis-male) didn’t care.” Another respondent
shared, “My nonbinary child has talked about what it means for their future; they know much more
than I do about this bill.”

Notably, several parents noted that their high school age children, while upset, were not “too
concerned” about how Don’t Say Gay would affect them: “We have discussed it with our older son. He
feels it is ridiculous and backwards movement, but isn’t certain how it will affect his day to day.”

Thirty respondents said that they had not discussed Don’t Say Gay with their children, with most
explaining that their children were young: “My oldest just turned 4 and my other two are under 2. We
haven’t spoken to our children about it.” “My son is 6 and we have not talked about it. He has always
been taught that families come in all dynamics (one parent, 2 parents, same sex, opposite sex).”

Those who did speak to their young children did not necessarily talk about the bill/law but rather
emphasized messages centering on “being yourself” and “being proud of who you are” presumably
to counteract the negative messaging they might directly or indirectly be exposed to. Said one, “Our
daughter is young, but we have talked about her family and have many books reminding her that
she has two dads. She has a rainbow flag she loves to wave and scream ‘happy pride’.” Said another
participant, “Too young at 4 to explain bill. We do explain however that families come in many shapes
and sizes and that love is what matters.” A few acknowledged that they had not spoken to their
children because they were avoiding it and/or did not want to upset them.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 19

CONCLUSION
This study provides insight into the concerns and perspectives of a sample of LGBTQ+ parents
regarding Florida’s Don’t Say Gay bill. These parents—who are disproportionately cisgender women,
well-educated, and White or Latinx—expressed a variety of emotional responses to the bill, including
fear, anger, and disbelief. The majority expressed at least some concern about how the bill might
affect their children and families, either via restricting what their children could talk about or do
vis-a-vis their families at school, or by cultivating a climate where their families were treated as “less
than” and peer exclusion and mistreatment was encouraged or at least facilitated. Parents also
voiced worries about their own level of involvement and acceptance at school. At a broader level, they
experienced fears surrounding their own safety, as well as that of their family, amidst observations
of an increasingly hostile climate. Participants coped with their worries through activism, avoiding
the news, and reaching out to family and friends, as well as, in some cases, utilizing therapy and
medication. They also considered leaving Florida, and some were actively making plans to do so.
Parents who talked with their children about the bill tended to be parents of older children; those
with younger children focused on positive messaging about diverse families as a protective strategy,
avoiding direct discussion of the bill.

These findings build on prior work showing that legislation can have a negative impact on LGBTQ+
parent families by cultivating a climate of fear and insecurity (Goldberg & Smith, 2011; Riggle et al.,
2010). They highlight how, in communities, regions, and states that are currently seeing an uptick in
legislation that purports to regulate what can be said and taught in schools, parents and children are
impacted both directly and indirectly, in a variety of important ways. In part reflecting their level of
resources, many parents in the study were considering leaving the state, or in some cases, sending
their children to private school to avoid the direct impact of HB 1557. Many LGBTQ+ parents do not
have these options, and time will tell how they cope with and manage the stress associated with
current and future legislation that aims to regulate discourse surrounding gender, sexual orientation,
race, and families.

SURVEY DEVELOPMENT AND METHODOLOGY

The data come from a survey developed and launched by Abbie Goldberg (Clark University). The
survey was entitled, “LGBTQ+ Parents’ Experiences with Don’t Say Gay”, and data were collected June
13–September 9, 2022. Responses were gathered from 113 LGBTQ+ parents.

Interviews with key stakeholders (e.g., attorneys in Florida) and LGBTQ+ parents in Florida informed
the development of the survey instrument. The primary researcher also gained feedback from several
LGBTQ+ parents in Florida who had participated in a prior study of hers approximately 10 years
earlier. The researcher also has extensive background and experience doing research with LGBTQ+
parents, with particular attention to the legal and community contexts that shape their lives and
experiences. The survey instrument was proofed for functionality by several doctoral students in
clinical psychology.

The survey was hosted on the online platform Qualtrics and took about 25 minutes to complete
(median duration = 27 minutes). It contained a variety of closed and open-ended questions.
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 20

Individuals could participate if they were an LGBTQ+ parent of at least one child under 18 and
currently lived in Florida. Participants were recruited widely, using personal and professional contacts,
LGBTQ+ and Florida specific groups and organizations (e.g., Equality Florida; employer LGBTQ+ and
diverseity related groups), and attorneys and other professionals who work with LGBTQ+ people and
parents in Florida.

The survey was available to complete between June 13–September 9. Responses were gathered from
113 LGBTQ+ parents, with 91 complete responses (80.5%) and 22 partial responses (19.5%).
 Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida | 21

AUTHOR
Abbie E. Goldberg, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Clark University, where
she currently serves as the Director of Women’s & Gender Studie, and is the current holder of the Jan
and Larry Landry Endowed Chair (2020-2023). Dr. Goldberg is also a former Visiting Scholar at the
Williams Institute.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The work conducted for this report was supported by the appointment of Abbie E. Goldberg to Clark
University’s Jan and Larry Landry Endowed Chair (three-year position) and a Research Incentive
Award, awarded by Clark University.

SUGGESTED CITATION
Goldberg, A.E. (2023). Impact of HB 1557 (Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill) on LGBTQ+ Parents in Florida. Los
Angeles, CA: The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law.

ABOUT THE WILLIAMS INSTITUTE

The Williams Institute is dedicated to conducting rigorous, independent research on sexual
orientation and gender identity law and public policy. A think tank at UCLA Law, the Williams Institute
produces high-quality research with real-world relevance and disseminates it to judges, legislators,
policymakers, media, and the public. These studies can be accessed at the Williams Institute website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
Box 951476, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1476
williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu

RESEARCH THAT MATTERS