FACT CHECK: Does This Photo Show Scott Wiener Holding A Book Titled ‘Don’t Tell Mom Or Dad?’
A photo shared on Facebook allegedly shows California Sen. Scott Wiener holding what appears to be a children’s book titled “Don’t Tell Mom or Dad.”
Verdict: False
This is not a genuine photo. The unedited picture shows Wiener holding a book that titled “Gender Pioneers.”
Fact Check:
Wiener announced a bill on Friday that would protect LGBTQ+ youth from homes that aren’t affirming of their identities, according to Bay Area Reporter. Another potential bill in California would force teachers to expose transgender students’ identities to parents within three days of learning the information and in writing, The Sacramento Bee reports.
The Facebook image allegedly shows Wiener grinning while holding a yellow book with the title “Don’t Tell Mom or Dad.” The book’s cover appears to show an adult whispering something to a child, who looks surprised.
“Child predator and groomer serving in the California legislature,” the caption reads. “Scott Wiener.”
This photo is digitally altered, however. It was originally posted to Twitter by Steiner’s verified account, and the book’s cover appears different and is titled “Gender Pioneers.” His caption reads, “As more & more states ban books & drag queens, we’re celebrating both at San Francisco Public Library’s #NightOfIdeas.”
As more & more states ban books & drag queens, we’re celebrating both at San Francisco Public Library’s #NightOfIdeas. pic.twitter.com/i4pk9Qxdix
— Senator Scott Wiener (@Scott_Wiener) March 5, 2023
“Gender Pioneers” by Philppa Punchard is marketed as an educational book. It includes stories from people with various gender identities and their “fight for equality, acceptance and change” according to Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
There are no credible news reports about Wiener holding a book that matches the image in the Facebook post. (RELATED: Does This Photo Show A List Of Books Banned In Florida Schools?)
Steiner made a tweet addressing the claims, showing two fabricated images of him with the book.
Today in the far right’s obsession with me: A photo of me holding an LGBTQ book was doctored by the anti-LGBTQ hate group Gays Against Groomers, a group with ties to the Proud Boys.
A hateful attempt to incite violence against me & the whole LGBTQ community? Or just a crush? 😍 pic.twitter.com/mNT0eFXusW
— Senator Scott Wiener (@Scott_Wiener) March 16, 2023
“This photo is a fraudulent and defamatory fabrication,” a Wiener spokesperson told Check Your Fact in an email.
This is not the first time misinformation has spread online. Check Your Fact recently debunked a claim the WHO has been served an injection and tribunal order.
