Dupage Policy Journal

Former Illinois House Representative Jeanne Ives criticized the Wheaton Park District's Cosley Zoo for what she called its promotion of “pride.” The zoo is just one area of the overall Wheaton Park district coming under fire for promoting what she calls “gender ideology.”

"Wheaton Park District is hiding behind court cases (wrongly, as actual statutory law conflicts) to allow use of locker rooms based on gender identity. Essentially saying the courts made them do it," Ives wrote in a June 15 tweet. "Did the courts make them turn family-friendly Cosley Zoo into a sexual preference promotion site? Utter Lunacy!"

On June 11, the Cosley Zoo shared a post on Facebook saying, “June is #pride month. Our animals have been enjoying some rainbow enrichment in celebration. Cosley Zoo is proud to be a safe and welcoming place for families all year!” The zoo shared photos of various flags, ribbons, or rainbow-colored food added to some of their animals’ enclosures.

DuPage Policy Journal also reported on en email from Daniel Novak, the park district's director of athletics and facilities, stating that the park district allows boys to use the same bathrooms as girls. 

Despite Novak's email, the park district’s general use ordinance states that it is forbidden for residents to “enter into or remain in any restroom, restroom washroom, or locker room designated for the opposite sex.” This guide was still posted on their park webpage as of June 14 and had exemptions for children under the age of six.

Cosley Zoo is a five-acre zoo in Wheaton run by the park district. The zoo features animals ranging from traditional farm livestock to native wildlife. “Visitors will discover exhibits that immerse them in natural habitats for white-tailed deer, red fox, Blanding’s turtles, a coyote, and more,” the zoo's website says. The zoo hosts recreational and educational events for children and families.

Incorporated in 1921, the Wheaton Park District consists of more than 800 acres of land. In addition to Cosley Zoo, the park district has 52 parks, and also runs the DuPage Historical Museum, two aquatic centers, two golf courses, and three fitness centers. The park district also organizes youth sports leagues including baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, football, and cheerleading, in addition to holding a variety of summer camps and programs for young children.