The fight against book bans has evolved significantly since Banned Books Week began in 1982. Modern book bans are not only about removing controversial content but also about defunding public libraries and schools. Far-right extremists, driven by anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-BIPOC sentiments, are spreading false claims that children’s books contain pornography and that educators are grooming kids for abuse. This fearmongering is used to justify drastic measures like relocating or auditing all children’s books, closing libraries to only adults, and making membership in professional organizations like the American Librarian Association potentially illegal. These actions are not genuinely about protecting children but are a strategic move to undermine public education, promote privatization, and erode progress towards equality. This tactic also fosters an environment where marginalized communities are further targeted and silenced.
