Does it Matter If US is a Democracy or Republic?

Undercover DEI Investigation: Project Veritas conducted an undercover investigation into Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices in schools. They found that DEI staff members were hiding information from parents and implementing gender support plans for students, which included changing names/pronouns and deciding whether to inform parents.

Social Justice Day in Schools: A school hosted a "Social Justice Day," which was described as a training camp for leftist activism. Activities included discussions on banned books, LGBTQ+ rights, climate change, and visits to Black-owned businesses, along with learning about protest music and creating their own.

Missouri's 'Parents Bill of Rights' Amendment: The “Parents Bill of Rights” in Missouri was amended to include restrictions on transgender students using restrooms and locker rooms matching their gender identity. The original bill required school staff to report to parents if a minor expressed discomfort with their gender identity or desired to change pronouns, and prohibited school personnel from encouraging students to adopt a gender identity or sexual orientation. An amendment to involve the Missouri Department of Social Services in cases where a child's LGBTQ status is disclosed to parents was proposed but faced opposition.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools' Policy Decision: The Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools board declined to adopt two provisions of the new Parents’ Rights in Education Law related to discussing gender identity and alerting parents about students' requests for name or pronoun changes. Instead, the board directed staff to develop guidance allowing educators more flexibility.

Maine Legislative Document (LD) 1735 Update: LD 1735, which would have granted Maine emergency jurisdiction over minors from other states seeking gender-affirming healthcare against parental opposition, was killed. The bill included a range of procedures from breast binders to surgeries like mastectomies and castration.

Episode Topic:  Discussion on Democracy vs. Republic in the U.S.: The episode discusses the importance of distinguishing between a democracy and a republic. It references Bernard Dobski's article from The Heritage Foundation and Walter Williams' work. The founders of America chose a republican model over a direct democracy due to concerns about instability and tyranny of the majority. The episode emphasizes the need for a republican approach to protect minority rights and guard against the majoritarian vices inherent in a pure democracy.

Affiliate Shoutout: Laurie Kimball from Milton, Vermont, was highlighted for her involvement in Parents’ Rights in Education, advocating for students and challenging school practices.