The Debate on Banning Books: An Analysis
The debate around banning books from public libraries and school curricula is a contentious issue that has gained significant traction in recent years. This discussion delves into the various perspectives and implications of such a practice, providing insights into the need for balanced and thoughtful approaches.
Defining “Banned”
For our purposes, “banned” refers to the act of prohibiting the access to specific books, either in public libraries or school curricula. Some books, particularly those deemed unsuitable for children, should indeed be restricted. However, the implementation of such bans varies widely, as we will see.
The Need for Age Appropriateness in School Curricula
Obviously, materials presented in school curricula should be age-appropriate. However, this concept extends beyond merely age-appropriate content to the outright ban on certain materials. It is crucial to recognize the difference between restricting access to content that is not suitable for a particular age group and banning age-appropriate material. This latter practice should be disallowed.
Case Study: “And Tango Makes Three”
One specific example is the picture book And Tango Makes Three. This story, based on true events, tells the tale of two male penguins who adopt and raise an abandoned penguin egg. The book is rated for young children (2–5 years) and includes a straightforward narrative of friendship and family. Despite this, the book has faced frequent bans due to parental complaints about the portrayal of "gay penguins," despite the fact that it does not contain any sexual content and includes heterosexual pairings and traditional family structures as well.
Banning Books: Condemning an Approach
Banning books should always be condemned, regardless of the entity implementing it. This practice is detrimental to the freedom of expression and can lead to a more oppressive society. Parents have the right to guide their children's reading, but censorship by external forces undermines this natural freedom.
Furthermore, such bans can perpetuate a narrow worldview and limit young people's exposure to diverse perspectives. As a parent, I prioritize inclusivity and expose my children to a wide range of viewpoints to broaden their understanding of the world.
The Chilling Effect of Banning Books
The current push to ban books and rewrite history, enabled by the Republican Party and its state leaders, is deeply concerning. This movement is reminiscent of tactics used by regimes such as Hitler's Nazi Germany in the 1930s. It is rooted in racism and prejudice, and it promotes a narrowly defined, exclusionary narrative.
Moms for Liberty: A Censorship Front
Moms for Liberty, the front organization behind these attacks on school boards and libraries, has broadened its purview to include public libraries, focusing on fear of educated people and the Internet, and targeting social media. This is nothing short of pure censorship.
One recent example is the law passed in Arkansas, dictating what books can be purchased and displayed in public libraries, where adults are the primary patrons. The new governor also threatened to cut funding to libraries that do not comply with these restrictions, thereby engaging in censorship under the guise of political activity.
The Historical Context and Implications
It is crucial to understand the historical context of libraries and their role in society. The Arkansas Library System, for instance, has a long history of serving marginalized communities, including women, immigrants, and people of color. But now, the new governor is threatening the autonomy of librarians and the very essence of public library services.
Arkansas is currently performing poorly across numerous indicators, including education, poverty, employment, healthcare, criminality, and overall quality of life. One notable warning sign is the decline in quality of life, with free access to books and information becoming scarce.
The Exclusionary Nature of Recent Bans
Another worrying aspect of the current round of censorship is its targeted nature. Many of the books purged from curricula and libraries are authored by women of color and LGBTQ authors. Bestsellers such as To Kill a Mockingbird, Beloved, and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings consistently appear on banned books lists, leading to a narrower and less diverse literary landscape.
Books like these are award-winning and provide valuable perspectives on life in our country, particularly in Arkansas. They challenge preconceived notions and promote understanding across different social and cultural divides.
In conclusion, the debate on book bans highlights the importance of balancing the need for appropriate content with the preservation of freedom of expression. While some books may be unsuitable for certain ages, outright bans can be detrimental and oppressive. It is crucial to advocate for a more inclusive and open environment that respects the needs of all members of society.