HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — One parent planning to send his daughter to space camp changed his mind after learning that there is a transgender space camp employee. The parent alleges that this team leader and hall monitor is allowed in the girls dorms. Since these Facebook allegations were made Alabama lawmakers have also spoken out, calling for the space camp employee to step down or be fired. It's caused a great deal of chatter.
The parent took to Facebook about three days ago to share his concerns stating in part quote: "I just need everyone to see this and know what's going on at Space Camp at US Space and Rocket Center. This is a man that claims to be a woman, and they allow it. I want it to spread, so I don't want to put too much on here. If you need more info, just read all the comments below."
Some other parents also chimed in on the post about their children's recent space camp experiences. One parent saying in part, "My daughter attended 2 weeks ago and one of the first things she said after being picked up was most of the counselors were gay or trans". Even the ones who didn't appear to be in her eyes wore rainbow flags. Many parents I know including myself had no clue and wouldn't have allowed our child to attend if we had this info. Men in girls dorms and bathrooms is not ok."
A former USSRC employee also chimed in stating quote: "Space Camp counselors do not enter the dorm rooms unless there is a medical emergency. I worked there for 4+ years. Even as a female we never entered the female rooms or bathrooms. I've never seen the inside of the bathroom/showering facilities for campers."
A person whose granddaughter went to Space Camp shared, "There were no counselors or hall monitors in the dorm rooms, unless there was an issue, they had someone come by and tell them it was lights out and when it was time to get up in the mornings."
Local and state representatives like U.S Representative Dale Strong have also made social media statements. Representative Strong sharing in part quote, "The U.S. Space and Rocket Center has long been a champion in promoting a science based education in North Alabama. I call on the center to immediately remove this individual and open a safety review to consider the potential harm and damages they have inadvertently caused children."
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center also shared a statement saying in part quote: "We are aware of rumors circulating on social media about a space camp employee. We would like to assure parents, teachers, and the public that the safety and security of space camp students is our number one priority. Any allegations of misconduct are taken very seriously. we are working to determine the facts in this case, after which we will take appropriate action."