The Spike in Book Bans in Colorado and Beyond
Colorado has seen a dramatic increase in efforts to ban library books in recent years, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. According to new preliminary data from the American Library Association, at least 136 unique book titles have been challenged in Colorado libraries and schools in just the first eight months of 2023, a staggering 143% increase from the previous year. This unprecedented surge in book challenges is a clear indication of the growing influence and organization of conservative groups across the state and the nation.
Previously, most challenges to library books were initiated by a concerned parent over a specific book. However, in the last two years, the association estimates that 90% of book challenges have been to multiple titles, and the lists of targeted books are now being widely distributed to supporters to encourage mass challenges.
The situation is not limited to Colorado. Across the country, calls to remove books from libraries and schools have increased by 20% in 2023 compared to the same period in 2022, a year that saw record-breaking attempts to ban books.
In a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) drew attention to this pressing issue by reading explicit and sexually graphic passages from books allowed in Illinois schools.
Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) read graphic and sexually explicit passages from pro-LGBTQ books during a Senate Judiciary Hearing
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulis, who was present at the hearing, expressed his concern and discomfort at the senator's actions. The moment quickly went viral, drawing attention to the need for Republicans to take a stand and protect children from inappropriate material in schools and libraries.
In a recent case in Douglas County, the library board rejected calls to ban four books that discussed LGBTQ+ issues. The challenges were filed by an activist group, who claimed that the books were "promoting a dangerous agenda" and "corrupting the minds of children.
"However, the board, after many appeals and hearings, upheld the right for all individuals to access diverse perspectives and information in public libraries.
Earlier this year, a school district in Colorado Springs reinstated three titles that had been pulled after facing significant backlash from conservative groups. This decision was made after it was revealed that the school had violated its own book removal policy and faced accusations of bowing to pressure from these groups.
The recent successes of the conservative movement in their attempts to ban library books in Colorado and beyond prove that the battle is ongoing. As a society, it is crucial to prioritize and defend intellectual freedom, safeguarding the rights of all individuals to access diverse ideas and knowledge without censorship. This requires active participation in public decision-making processes when tax dollars are being used and open communication with parents when it comes to children's reading materials.
The fight for intellectual freedom is far from over, and it is up to all of us to ensure that it prevails.