Music
Miley Cyrus’ song ‘Rainbowland’ banned from first grade concert
An elementary school in Waukesha, Wisconsin has banned ‘Rainbowland’ for being too “controversial”.
Heyer Elementary, a school in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is gearing up for their upcoming first-grade concert. However, The School District of Waukesha has banned Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton’s ‘Rainbowland’ from their setlist.
According to the school district, the song was suggested to the music teacher, who asked the principal for approval. The principal checked with a central office administrator where they reviewed the song alongside the district’s ‘Board Policy 2240 - Controversial Issues in the Classroom.’
The song was ultimately rejected because it “could be deemed controversial”.
The decision was supported by Superintendent Jim Sebert who told local news outlets, “The main question was, is the song appropriate for the age level and maturity of the students.”
What is ‘Rainbowland’ about?
‘Rainbowland’ is an electro pop song performed by singer Miley Cyrus and her godmother Dolly Parton. It was released on Cyrus’ album ‘Younger Now’ in 2017.
“It’s really about if we could love one another a little better or be a little kinder, be a little sweeter, we could live in rainbow land,” Parton said about the song.
“It’s really just about dreaming and hoping that we could all do better. It’s a good song for the time right now.”
The song’s LGBTQ+ implications
The song includes lyrics such as, “Living in a Rainbowland where you and I go hand in hand. Oh, I’d be lying if I said this was fine.
“All the hurt and the hate going on here. We are rainbows, me and you. Every color, every hue. Let’s shine on through. Together, we can start living in a Rainbowland.”
While neither Cyrus nor Parton has confirmed if the song has a connection to the LGBTQ+ community, many fans have interpreted it as such. This interpretation has weight to it as both singers have openly supported the LGBTQ+ community.
This implication may be why the song was banned at Heyer Elementary School.
The board policy states: “a controversial issue is a topic on which opposing points of view have been promulgated by responsible opinion and likely to arouse both support and opposition from the community.”
The students will instead sing ‘Rainbow Connection’ from the Muppets.