George Takei’s Response to TN’s “Don’t Say Gay” Bill

There is a new law trying to be passed in the Tennessee state government that would prohibit teaching about homosexuality in public school. George Takei has an unusual solution if this bill does pass.

The so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill has been getting a lot of attention in the press lately. This bill would prevent teachers from teaching about homosexuality in public schools. The reason for this, as stated by Republican Senate sponsor Stacey Campfield of Knoxville is because “homosexuals don’t naturally reproduce.” As of May 20, 2011, this bill has passed the TN Senate and will be going on the House.

George Takei, who is best known as Mr. Sulu from the original Star Trek series has started a web campaign urging that if the word ‘gay’ is going to be outlawed, that all people need to do is just say Takei instead. This web campaign has gotten a large following on many social networking sites, especially with the new “It’s OK to be Takei!” logo.

On my Facebook, so many of my friends have added the logo to their user pictures as support of George Takei. There is also a new webstore where you can buy products, such as t-shirts and buttons with the logo on it.

I do think it should be noted that the actual word ‘gay’ is not going to be made against the law, which is really a misconception with the bill. Gay does also mean happy, so if you used it in this way you wouldn’t be breaking the law, if it passes.

What do you think about this bill and George Takei’s response?