Part 2/11:
The controversy ignited after Nick Merks made a straightforward and seemingly non-controversial statement: "They should leave little children alone." This comment was in response to ongoing debates about the exposure of elementary school children to LGBTQ+ ideology in schools, a hot-button issue that has divided parents, educators, and activists alike. Merks expressed concern over what he perceives as the grooming or sexualization of young children through certain educational materials and media pushes.