Misinformation Crisis and a Cat Litter Box

Are cat litter boxes installed in public school bathrooms to help those who identify as cats or “furries” feel more included? This conversation occurred at a recent family gathering over the weekend.

Someone started the conversation by saying that this is happening in schools all over Michigan (where we live.) It began in Midland, Mi, and is now spreading to other Michigan schools.

As they discussed the possibility of this absurdity, statements about it flew around the room. “Is this taking place? What is going on in our schools,” they asked. Finally, after shaking my head in disbelief that this was even remotely possible, I got up, grabbed my phone, and did a quick Google search.

Schools are not putting litter boxes in bathrooms to accommodate children. Even though school districts have issued multiple statements refuting the story, some social media posts continue to spread incorrect information.

School districts in Iowa, Michigan, and Nebraska have refuted claims that they have litter boxes in their restrooms. Nevertheless, the rumor has persisted, but each time has been proven false:

Everything began with a remark made at a Midland Public Schools board meeting in December 2021. A video of this parent’s public statement at the meeting garnered over 80,000 views on YouTube. It was later echoed by Meshawn Maddock, Chairwoman of the Michigan Republican Party, who shared the video of the school board meeting and the comments on Facebook.

In January, Midland Public Schools’ superintendent had to email parents stating that the claim was false.

“It is unconscionable that this afternoon I am sending this communication,” the superintendent of Midland Public Schools, Michael Sharrow, wrote in the email.

“However, our Midland PS stakeholders may be confused about a false message/accusation that has resurfaced this week and is gaining traction in the…

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