The fight over banning books

• The number of books banned in classrooms and libraries is increasing, with classics like "Catch 22" and "The Great Gatsby" targeted.
• Books related to LGBTQIA topics, critical race theory, and representing black voices are particularly singled out for removal.
• The subject matter being attacked has shifted from violence and vulgarity to sex and gender.
• Organized efforts by groups of parents, such as Moms for Liberty, have led to book bans in many school districts, with Florida and Texas being at the forefront.
• Some individuals and organizations, like the Brooklyn Public Library and Books Unbanned, are actively opposing book bans and offering alternative resources for readers.

Culture Wars: Why book bans are trending in the US | DW News

• A conservative-led movement in the United States is pushing for book bans in schools, leading to a battle over education and sparking culture wars.
• Parents in Tennessee object to books taught in schools, including "The Story of Ruby Bridges," claiming they are racially divisive and focus too much on the negatives of history.
• The movement opposes critical race theory, which they believe is divisive and negatively affects white children's self-image.
• Advocates for students of color argue that tough conversations about race and stories like Ruby Bridges' should be included in education, as children can understand and empathize.
• The book ban movement has gained momentum, with bans targeting books about race and LGBTQ+ and black individuals, leading to the highest number of attempted bans recorded by the American Library Association.

Over 170 books banned from Florida school libraries

A Florida school district has removed 176 books from its libraries to comply with a new State education reform law supported by Governor Ron DeSantis.

The book "Roberto Clemente Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates" was among the books reviewed due to a passage referencing racism faced by the baseball legend.

The law requires that school books, from kindergarten to third grade, be reviewed by a media specialist to ensure they are free of pornography and certain race-based teachings and do not contain instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Violating parts of the law could lead to teachers being charged with a felony, which has sparked concerns among educators.

The removal of books has sparked criticism from teachers and parents who argue that the legislation creates unnecessary fear and limits educational resources.

Book bans in America are rising. Here's a look at what's lost.

In 2021, over 1,500 books were challenged or banned in the United States, with the majority being written by or about LGBTQIA or Black individuals.

Book banning in the US is not a new phenomenon and has historically targeted books depicting slavery, segregation, and racism.

"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel widely regarded as an essential work, has been consistently challenged over the years.

Politicians use book bans to rally against social changes and diversity, tapping into people's frustrations and anxieties.
Censoring books with diverse characters deprives readers of representation and the opportunity to learn about different backgrounds, limiting empathy and understanding.

The Books Getting Banned From Schools

On May 27, 2022, VICE News reported a significant increase in book bans across U.S. schools since last summer, with at least 1,586 bans being implemented. This trend has sparked concerns among educators and free speech advocates, who fear that such bans could restrict students' exposure to diverse perspectives and ideas. Notably, some of the banned books include literary classics such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Catcher in the Rye," as well as more recent works like "The Hate U Give" and "George." In addition, while some bans have been implemented due to concerns over explicit content or language, others have been criticized as attempts to censor certain political or social viewpoints.

As the debate over book bans continues, it is crucial to recognize the value of safeguarding intellectual freedom and promoting open school dialogue. Banning books can limit the diversity of ideas and perspectives that students are exposed to, which can impede their intellectual growth and development. Instead, schools should encourage students to engage in critical thinking and open discussions about controversial topics. By doing so, students can learn to think independently and develop their opinions, which is essential for success in the real world. Therefore, we must continue to advocate for intellectual freedom and open dialogue in schools.

A former Navy commander – and #Florida parent – had a strong message for Governor Ron #DeSantis on the threat #bookbans pose.

100-year-old Martin County woman creates quilt to show opposition to boo...

A 100-year-old Martin County woman created a quilt to oppose school book bans. The Martin County School Board meeting sparked a heated debate about book removal, with former educators, students, and parents speaking in favor of and in opposition to banning books. Grace Lin, the 100-year-old woman, brought her quilt, showcasing books targeted or banned. She expressed concern that as books are taken off the shelves, their lessons are taken away, and history will repeat itself if people do not know history.