Mo. State Representative Zachary Wyatt told fellow members of the House of Representatives that he is gay this morning, according to the Kirksville Daily Express. He spoke out to denounce House Bill 2051, which would ban discussions of homosexuality in public schools.
“Today I ask you to stand with me as a proud Republican, a proud veteran, and a proud gay man who wants to protect all kids, addressing bullying in our schools,” Wyatt said.
According to the Kansas City Star, Wyatt said he informed his family and close friends about his sexuality just last week.
The advocacy group Progress Missouri videotaped Wyatt's address this morning:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4koieDcoXE&feature=player_embedded
HB 2051 was sponsored by Republican Representative Steve Cookson. He has said schools should focus on math and reading and leave controversial issues like homosexuality for families to discuss.
According to the Star:
The bill has little chance of passing. It was assigned to the House Education Committee, where the chairman said it won't even get a public hearing. Cookson said he has no plans to add it to other legislation as an amendment.
