What do “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “Harry Potter,” and the Christian Bible all have in common? At one point or another, these books have all been banned from schools and communities.
Banned Book Week began in 1982 when Judith Krug, a library activist, was introduced to the idea by the Association of American Publishers. The annual event was created with the purpose of raising awareness about the harm that is caused by book banning.
There are many reasons why people push for book bans. Most often, it’s because they discuss sensitive topics that certain individuals or groups believe to be unsuitable for children or the general public. Books are commonly banned for having content involving sex, female puberty, the LGBTQ+ community, racism, slavery, sexism, and graphic violence.
In the U.S., the first book to have a widespread ban placed on it was Thomas Morton’s “New English Canaan.” It was banned in 1637 in the colony of Quincy, Massachusetts. The book was banned for its criticism of Puritanism, which was the dominating religion and culture of the area. Many other books that are now considered classics—and are required reading in many American schools—have been heavily challenged and banned in the past. This includes “Catcher in the Rye,” “The Color Purple,” “Animal Farm,” “Lord of the Flies,” “Brave New World,” and “1984.”
Currently, book banning continues to occur, however just last month, a new California law was introduced by Assembly Member Dr. Corey Jackson which forbids books from being banned in public education. The law was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom shortly after its proposal.
“With this new law, we’re cementing California’s role as the true freedom state: a place where families — not political fanatics — have the freedom to decide what’s right for them,” said Gov. Newsom.
Organizations that stand against book bans support this decision, reaffirming their beliefs that book bans infringe on first amendment rights; whitewash history; and target the voices of minorities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. Opposingly, organizations that support book banning claim that book bans limit government overreach, stop the indoctrination of children, and give parents control over their children’s education and safety.
Book bans exist because people have vastly different opinions about controversial topics. As long as there are book bans in place, there will be people who work to end them.
