Parity Pipeline

Genre

Synopsis

In the fall of 2022, NJ schools unveil an updated sex ed curriculum, including lessons for younger kids and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. The backlash is immediate. As opposing parents pressure the state to rescind the changes, three high school students - Louie, Mehr and Max - are caught in the firestorm. They are on a mission to preserve what they believe is a fundamental right of young people: access to critical information on their bodies, gender identity and sexuality. Over the course of two years, NEXT GENERATION SEX follows the tenacity and bravery of these teens: Louie, an aspiring educator who shares his own fears about coming out; Mehr, an outspoken senior working to stop sexual assault and harassment; and Max, a trans student who is unwantedly the focus of the parental rights extremists. Each must navigate discrimination, public vitriol, and their own personal journeys to protect their rights. The film also tracks the fury of parental backlash to the new curriculum. These “parental rights” groups take over school boards, troll educators, and target student activists - aiming to control what young people can learn about sexuality, bodies, and relationships. Despite these efforts growing into a national political storm – Louie, Mehr and Max embrace their fights further, recognizing they’re not just advocating for their own futures, but an entire generation’s right to access information that will shape what they value in society.