In a bold move to protect the integrity of sexual education in the Netherlands, Rutgers University has initiated legal proceedings against the conservative Christian organization Civitas Christiana. This lawsuit, filed on March 25, 2025, stems from a series of false claims the group has propagated about Rutgers’ education program related to the upcoming Week van de Lentekriebels, or Spring Fever Week, which is scheduled to commence on March 31, 2025.
The Week van de Lentekriebels is an initiative designed for primary schools to teach children about relationships, sexuality, and resilience. However, Civitas Christiana has branded this program as "LGBTQIA+ propaganda" and has accused it of normalizing pedophilia, and even claims it forces genital mutilation on toddlers. Such allegations have put immense pressure on teachers and schools, leading many to reconsider their involvement due to public backlash ignited by this misinformation.
Luc Lauwers, Deputy Director of Rutgers, expressed his deep concerns regarding the repercussions of Civitas’ campaign, stating, "With lies, slander, and disinformation, this extremely conservative foundation is standing in the way of the safe, healthy, and happy development of children and young people." Lauwers emphasized that the dissemination of such fabrications was incomprehensible and detrimental, pressing the need for corrective action.
Further complicating the situation, Civitas Christiana has reportedly cultivated a climate of tension, with their campaign leading to unrest and even threats against Rutgers employees over recent years. In light of these actions, Rutgers seeks to compel Civitas to retract its statements and halt the spread of misinformation that is harming educators and negatively impacting the children involved.
Lauwers firmly stated, "Everyone has their own perspectives and standards and values, that is a great asset in a free democracy. But we draw a line at lies and slander." In a formal request, Rutgers demanded that Civitas rectify its misleading messages before a court date set for the following day, warning that failure to comply could result in further legal repercussions.
The tension surrounding the Week van de Lentekriebels has nearly become an annual tradition, as this marks the third consecutive year that Civitas Christiana has publicly opposed the initiative. The organization has previously claimed children would receive "self-gratification lessons" and be exposed to inappropriate sexual content, resulting in a culture of fear and misunderstanding among parents.
Rutgers reports that approximately 46 percent of primary schools have indicated they are experiencing resistance from parents influenced by these disinformation tactics, mostly stemming from a small cohort of one to five parents per school. This has led to a notable decline in participation in the educational week — from 42 percent in 2022, down to only 35 percent this year.
The core of these initiatives is to equip children with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate complex issues surrounding relationships and their own bodies. Rutgers maintains that educating children on these subjects is vital for fostering healthy and respectful attitudes towards sexuality. Lauwers articulated a vision where children learn to recognize their own boundaries and develop a positive self-image through honest discussions rooted in age-appropriate content.
In reaction to the backlash against the upcoming Week van de Lentekriebels, Rutgers has consistently advocated for clear educational practices, reaffirming their commitment to providing children with safe environments for healthy growth and relationship understanding.
The 20th edition of the Week van de Lentekriebels is anticipated to begin amidst heightened scrutiny. While participation in this program is voluntary, the influence of disinformation campaigns such as Civitas’ has raised alarm among educators and advocates for comprehensive sexual education. Observers have noted that the core issue remains the challenge of delivering necessary education to children in a politically charged climate.
As the controversy unfolds, Rutgers seeks not only to safeguard its program but also to challenge the broader implications of misinformation surrounding sexual education. The stakes are high; misinformation leads not only to diminished participation in helpful educational programs but also potentially puts children’s health and understanding at risk.
Lauwers concluded, emphasizing, "The lies of Civitas are dangerous and must stop". The urgent appeal for accountability and accurate representation in educational discussions remains as relevant as ever, as Rutgers navigates the turbulent waters of this contentious societal issue.
