Because nothing foments community like talking about religion and politics

I recently read an intriguing post by the often-interesting Greta Christina about how religion is like fanfic:
http://freethoughtblogs.com/greta/2007/10/08/why-religion-is/ 

And I thought since Missouri now seems to be forwarding their own "Don't Say Gay" bill, it would be a fine time (in honor of national poetry month) to re-post the sonnet I wrote last year about Tennessee's similar legislation.

(Tennessee SB 49)

'Twas April, in a state called Tennessee 

When proudly rose one man upon the hill. 

"Don't mention homosexuality 

in schools," he said. "And thus I bring this bill." 

One Stacey Campfield gave this stirring speech, 

Eliminating gayness just like that. 

"A subject we don't mention and don't teach, 

Will likely disappear in no time flat. 

But why stop there? There's so much more we need. 

Let's outlaw talk of being poor, or black,

Pretend that Christian is the only creed, 

And kids won't choose an inconvenient track." 

One truth to Tennessee we must convey: 

Not saying gay won't make it fade away.