By HOI ABC
BLOOMINGTON – State Farm Insurance is ending its partnership with an organization promoting education about transgender youth, saying the topic should not be required learning in schools.
The Bloomington-based company acknowledges its support for the “philanthropic” program GenderCool, has been the subject of news and customer inquiries.
Backlash against State Farm included an online condemnation from a nonprofit group called Consumers’ Research. The group created a webpage titling it, “Like a Creepy Neighbor, State Farm is targeting your 5-year old.”
State Farm released a statement on Tuesday.
“We support organizations that provide resources for parents to have conversations about gender and identity with their children at home. We do not support required curriculum in schools on this topic,” the company said.
“As a result, we have made the decision we will no longer be affiliated with the organization,” State Farm said.
GenderCool’s website lists 22 corporate partners and sponsors including the Allstate Foundation, tied to one of State Farm’s competitors in the insurance industry. The partners and supporters are described by GenderCool as “some of the world’s most visionary organizations.
“We will continue to explore how we can support our associates, as well as organizations that align with our commitment to diversity and inclusion, including the LGBTQ+ community,” State Farm said.
“We recognize and value the diversity of all people and support a culture of respect and inclusion in the communities in which we live and work, as well as our workplace.” the company also said.
