It’s Banned Books Week and the fact that it exists is disturbing. In the 21st century, there are books being removed from libraries, curricula and schools. How did we get here?

Oh right… different ideas, perspectives and people are dangerous! How do you have a “free” society that isn’t free to read the books they want? Or authors whose work may be censored if they express their thoughts freely?

Now, there are some people who conflate banning books with protecting children. These are separate issues. I wholeheartedly agree that the content of books must be appropriate for young minds. Adults, especially parents, must be mindful of what their children are consuming, including at school! With that said, I do not believe that this should be used as a reason to ban books. It is the proverbial “slippery slope.” When you start down this road, who decides which books get taken off shelves? What are the criteria?

If you are looking to read and/or purchase banned titles, resources or events, visit bannedbooksweek.org