Unfortunately, the current educational focus on closing any achievement gap and/or excellence gap, combined with the fact that gifted children are a tiny percentage of the population therefore vastly outnumbered... puts these types of statements in vogue.
As a counter-point, and to provide the local public with accurate information, is it possible to write a letter-to-the-editor for publication in the local paper, which cites expert testimony about the needs of gifted learners?
The OP has a great idea to gather parents together; There is strength in numbers. The links shared
upthread can provide a focused starting point and common knowledge base around which to rally.
