Photo by: Kelsey McNeal/Contributor
The State of Florida and one of its newest bills have people in an uproar.
Actress Raven-Symoné and her Raven’s Home co-stars are speaking out against the controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law.
On March 22, the actors from the Disney Channel series walked off the set in protest of the newly approved measure (HB 1557), which forbids discussion on sexual orientation and gender identity in primary school classrooms.
“We are walking out today in support of this ridiculous bill … we don’t like it,” Symoné, her cast-mates and executive producers exclaimed in a video. “We’re walking out. It’s stupid. We love everyone. Support, support, support.”
Photo by: Kelsey McNeal / Getty
The state Senate passed bill HB 1557 earlier this month, according to the Associated Press. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed that he would sign the law, but the exact date is unknown.
As a response to the walkout, Disney Channel said in an official statement obtained by PEOPLE that they “have both our respect and our support.”
In an Instagram caption, the 36-year-old wrote, “In support of our LGBTQ+ family and all of those who will be damaged by the “don’t say gay bill” we the cast of Ravens Home are walking out. In todays world it is imperative that we take stands, show support, and move forward not backwards.”
She added: “Every family every person and every child deserves to be recognized no matter their race, gender, or sexual orientation. Education that reflects the truth and the world we live in is something we must fight for. #dontsaygaybill #🌈🏳️🌈🌈”
Other Walt Disney Company businesses, including its theme park in Orlando, which employs tens of thousands of workers, also spoke out against the controversial law.
“To ALL who come to this happy place, welcome,” Walt Disney World said on Instagram. “We oppose any legislation that infringes on basic human rights, and stand in solidarity and support our LGBTQIA+ Cast, Crew, and Imagineers and fans who make their voices heard today and every day.”
Messages from ABC, FX Networks, National Geographic and Marvel Studios were also sent out.
“We strongly denounce any and ALL legislation that infringes on the basic human rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. Marvel Studios stands for hope, inclusivity and strength; and we proudly stand with the community. Today, we pledge to continue our strong commitment as allies who promote the values of equality, acceptance and respect,” Marvel Studios tweeted.
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