Pennsylvania School District Cancels Appearance by Actor and Author Maulik Pancholy Due to Concerns about “Activism” and “Lifestyle”

The decision by a Pennsylvania school district to cancel an appearance by actor and children’s book author Maulik Pancholy has sparked controversy and accusations of homophobia.

Pancholy, who is openly gay, was scheduled to speak against bullying at Mountain View Middle School in Cumberland County. However, the school board voted unanimously to cancel his talk, citing concerns about his activism and “lifestyle.”

The district’s policy against hosting overtly political events was also mentioned, with some board members expressing uncertainty about the content of Pancholy’s talk.

Criticism of the decision has been swift, with parents, students, and community members calling it homophobic. Online petitions have been started to reinstate Pancholy’s appearance.

In response, Pancholy took to social media to express his disappointment, emphasizing the importance of representation in literature and the power of books to build empathy.

The controversy surrounding Pancholy’s canceled appearance highlights the ongoing debate over LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance in schools.

The Associated Press reached out to the school district for comment but has not received a response.