Florida’s students deserve classrooms that prepare them for democracy — not silence them.

HB 1071, which has advanced in the Florida Legislature, would restrict social and political activism in K-12 schools. According to public statements from the ACLU of Florida, the bill limits student expression, civic engagement, and classroom discussion. If signed into law, it risks discouraging young people from speaking up about issues that shape their lives and communities.

Public schools are not just places to memorize facts. They are where students learn how government works, how to debate respectfully, how to analyze complex issues, and how to participate in civic life. Treating student activism and political expression as something dangerous sends a troubling message: that engaging with democracy is a problem rather than a strength.

Supporters of this bill may argue it is meant to create neutrality or prevent disruption. But when laws use broad or vague language to regulate speech, schools may overcorrect to avoid controversy. That can lead to self-censorship, where students and educators stay silent out of fear of punishment — even when discussions are lawful and educational.

Families across the political spectrum want their children to think critically, ask hard questions, and become informed citizens. Whether a student is advocating for environmental protection, religious freedom, racial justice, or any other issue, the right to peaceful expression is a core American value protected by the First Amendment.

We urge the Florida House, the Florida Senate, and Governor Ron DeSantis to reject HB 1071 and protect students’ constitutional rights. Florida’s classrooms should foster responsible civic engagement, not suppress it. Our democracy depends on young people who are encouraged — not afraid — to participate.