During a recent Board of Education meeting in Jericho, New York, a concerned mother raised a question about pronouns and gender identity, referencing a controversial Project Veritas video. In recent years, school board meetings have evolved from discussions of budgetary matters to becoming a battleground in the culture war surrounding topics like critical race theory, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Project Veritas, known for their undercover videos, has released several videos portraying Long Island educators discussing gender and sexuality without any context. These videos have led to professional consequences for administrators and teachers, and have eroded trust between parents and school staff.
Project Veritas has a history of using misleading videos to attack various individuals and organizations. Their past stunts have caused real damage, such as the defunding of ACORN and the targeting of Rep. Ilhan Omar. Despite founder James O’Keefe’s departure from the organization due to alleged financial misconduct, Project Veritas continues to stir up controversies. Most recently, they have targeted DEI efforts in New York public schools, including Jericho, East Williston, Manhasset, and East Meadow. Troubled GOP Rep. George Santos, who represents three of these towns, has further fueled the fire. Project Veritas’ involvement in the fight against DEI signifies the conservative movement’s determination to maintain the white Christian status quo.
The videos released by Project Veritas were filmed without the educators’ knowledge, evident from their framing and angle. They capture casual conversations during meals and conferences that touch on the educators’ evolving views on gender and sexuality. The first video features East Meadow School District’s Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Dave Casamento, discussing hiring practices and his personal connection to his work as an out gay man. Two other videos were filmed during an event hosted by LGBTeach, where educators discussed topics related to gender-affirming care and supporting LGBTQ+ students. These videos have sparked controversy, with politicians like Rep. George Santos using them to stir up public sentiment against these educators.
It is clear that there is a nationwide conservative effort to limit education on diverse topics and maintain the white Christian status quo. Project Veritas’ misleading videos only serve to perpetuate this agenda. The consequences of these videos extend beyond reputation damage to educators and widespread mistrust. Schools and educators are now caught in the crossfire of a divisive culture war that threatens the progress made in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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