An Oregon middle school has come under fire after hosting a “Drag Day” during its Pride Spirit Week, encouraging students to cross-dress and celebrate LGBTQ+ figures. Parents expressed concern over the lack of prior notification and the nature of the activities.
At the Arts & Technology Academy in Eugene School District 4J, students participated in a week-long Pride Spirit Week. Themes included “Rainbow-Out” day, “Drag Day,” “Queer Hero Day,” and “Pride Flag Friday.” On “Drag Day,” students were encouraged to “dress like a drag queen/king/monarch or dress up as a different gender.” “Queer Hero Day” invited students to dress as LGBTQ+ figures like Freddie Mercury. The week concluded with students dressing as various pride flags.
A parent reported receiving an email about the events only after the week had begun, questioning why there was no advance notice. Oregon law mandates that schools inform parents ahead of any instruction on human sexuality. The district acknowledged the oversight, stating that while most activities weren’t classified as formal instruction on human sexuality, parents should have been notified earlier. They committed to improving communication for future events.
The district’s activities align with the Oregon Department of Education’s LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success Plan, aiming to educate students about the histories and contributions of marginalized communities. However, this initiative has faced criticism from parents who feel such programs are inappropriate for middle school students.
Notably, the Eugene 4J school board previously adopted a resolution affirming support for transgender and gender-expansive students, opposing federal directives that recognize only two sexes. The district also joined a federal lawsuit challenging Department of Education guidelines on racial discrimination, emphasizing its commitment to equity programs.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions between educational institutions promoting inclusivity and parents advocating for greater oversight and transparency in school activities.
