The latest report from PEN America has shed light on a disturbing trend in US public schools – the widespread banning of books that feature people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other marginalized groups. The study found that out of 4,218 book titles that were banned in the 2023-24 school year, a staggering 36% featured people of color, while 25% included LGBTQ+ characters. This targeted censorship is a harmful assault on the stories, achievements, and history of these communities, and it’s essential that we recognize the damaging consequences it has on young people.
The report counteracts claims made by conservative lawmakers that the banned books are sexually explicit, revealing that only 13% of removed titles included “on the page” instances of sexual experiences. Instead, the majority of banned books were fiction, with 67% intended for younger audiences. This suggests that the true motive behind these bans is not to protect children from explicit content, but to erase the voices and experiences of marginalized communities from our educational system.
It’s heartbreaking to see books like August Wilson’s Pulitzer-prize winning play Fences and Innosanto Nagara’s A is for Activist, a picture book about social issues, being removed from classrooms. These books are not only essential for promoting diversity and inclusion but also for helping children develop empathy and understanding towards different cultures and identities.
The fact that books featuring people of color were disproportionately targeted in all banned-book categories is particularly concerning. With over 50% of young people in the US being children of color, it’s crucial that our educational system reflects their lives and experiences. By stripping library shelves of books about these communities, we are defeating the purpose of a library collection that is supposed to represent the lives of all people.
The banning of books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, particularly those with transgender or genderqueer characters, is also alarming. It’s essential that we recognize the importance of representation and inclusivity in our educational system, especially for marginalized communities that have been historically excluded.
As advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, it’s crucial that we stand against these book bans and fight for the rights of marginalized communities to have their stories told and heard. We must ensure that our educational system promotes empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes and erasing the voices of those who need to be heard the most. By doing so, we can create a more just and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.