The recent report from PEN America has shed light on a disturbing trend in the world of literature – the banning of books that feature LGBTQ characters or people of color. It’s shocking to learn that more than half of the books banned last year fell into this category, with 36% featuring characters or people of color and 25% including LGBTQ characters or people. This targeted censorship is a harmful assault on historically marginalized and underrepresented populations, and it’s essential that we recognize the damaging consequences it can have on young people.
The data shows that book challenges and bans have skyrocketed in recent years, with the American Library Association reporting that the number of books challenged in libraries across the US reached an all-time high in 2024. This is a worrying trend, as it suggests that there is a growing movement to restrict access to information and limit the diversity of stories and experiences that are available to students.
The analysis also found that people of color and LGBTQ people were disproportionately affected across multiple categories. For example, 44% of banned history and biography titles featured people of color, and 26% featured Black people specifically. Of the banned titles with pictures or illustrated content, 60% had illustrations related to race and racism or featured characters of color. This is a clear indication that the banning of books is not just about protecting students from explicit content, but also about erasing the stories and experiences of marginalized communities.
It’s heartening to see that there are organizations like PEN America that are fighting against this trend and advocating for the freedom to read. Their analysis highlights the importance of having diverse and inclusive literature in schools, and the need to protect the rights of students to access information and stories that reflect their lives and experiences.
The argument that books with LGBTQ characters or people of color are being banned to protect students from explicit content is a weak one. The data shows that accusations of explicit content are often exaggerated, and that books with sexual content can actually help students to raise questions and guide them in their understanding of human experience.
As a society, it’s essential that we recognize the value of diversity and inclusion in literature, and that we work to create a world where all students can see their lives and experiences reflected in the books they read. By doing so, we can help to promote empathy, understanding, and acceptance, and create a more just and equitable society for all.
The fact that more than half of all US schoolchildren are students of color, and that younger generations are increasingly identifying as LGBTQ, makes it even more crucial that we have literature that reflects their lives and experiences. By banning books that feature LGBTQ characters or people of color, we are not only restricting access to information, but also denying students the opportunity to see themselves and their communities represented in the stories they read.
It’s time for us to take a stand against book banning and censorship, and to fight for the freedom to read. We must recognize the importance of diverse and inclusive literature in schools, and work to create a world where all students can access the information and stories they need to thrive. By doing so, we can help to promote a more just and equitable society, and ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.