4-H club removes rainbow after anti-LGBTQ+ complaints

4-H club removes rainbow after anti-LGBTQ+ complaints

A Censored Rainbow : A Response to Discrimination

In the small rural town of Odebolt, Iowa, a controversy has erupted, highlighting the ongoing tension between LGBTQ+ inclusion and conservative opposition. Three children resigned from their local 4-H community service club after a club leader erased a rainbow from a window painting, a piece created to emphasize the club’s inclusivity.

Art, Freedom of Expression, and Inclusion

Frannie and Elwood Burns, two siblings, were tasked with painting a message on the front window of the local newspaper, The Chronicle. They were given total creative freedom, provided that the painting mentioned the club and encouraged participation. They created a piece proclaiming: “Have you heard the news? 4-H is for everyone,” accompanied by a colorful rainbow.

The Erasure and Controversy

However, the children’s mother, Rachel Burns, discovered that the rainbow had been erased the following day. The club leader revealed that he had been forced to act this way following complaints, although the identity of the complainants remains unclear. This action led to the children’s resignation from the club, a decision supported by another child in a sign of solidarity.

An Open Letter and a Call for Change

Frannie Burns expressed her discontent and disappointment in an open letter, criticizing the action as childish and inappropriate. She emphasized that this sent a message of exclusion to the LGBTQ+ community, contrary to the principles of inclusion and diversity advocated by the 4-H club.

Reflection on Inclusion and Diversity

This incident is not isolated. The 4-H club, funded by the United States Department of Agriculture and local governments, has already faced similar challenges regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2018, under pressure from USDA officials, the club withdrew a policy welcoming LGBTQ+ members.

Towards a More Inclusive Future

Mitchell Hoyer, the acting leader of the state’s 4-H program, assured that steps were being taken to address this situation. He reaffirmed the club’s commitment to creating a quality learning environment where all youth can feel belonged and capable of making a positive impact on their communities.