Jennifer Sturge, Core Faculty in Education, specifically in the school library endorsement program, participated in a panel discussion titled Off the Shelf: Book Challenges, Bans and Promoting Inclusive Literature sponsored by ADL Education and the American Association of School Librarians.
Book challenges and bans have been increasing across the country, both in schools and districts where laws have been passed, but also where no formal rules, restrictions, or laws exist. When large-scale book bans take place, it affects young people’s ability to see themselves reflected in books. It also impacts their ability to gain an understanding of and empathy for people who are different than themselves, which contributes to antisemitism, racism, and all forms of bias.
Children’s book author Kelly Yang and a powerful group of panelists—including a teacher, high school student, librarian, and parent (from Florida Freedom to Read Project)—addressed how book challenges and bans have impacted them in their unique roles and discussed what we can do about what’s happening in schools and libraries.
View the conversation here.
