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freedom to read

How library workers are defending books, democracy, and queer lives

Books that tell LGBTQ+ stories are under attack. In communities nationwide, librarians defend our community’s freedoms to read and exist.

How to Fight Book Bans, According to the American Library Association's Queer President

“We need all hands on deck in this moment, and there’s something everyone can do,” Emily Drabinski says.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signs and vetoes LGBTQ+ legislation

Here's everything you need to know about the bills, their authors, and Newsom's actions in recent weeks.

Brandon Wolf, Pulse Survivor and Advocate, Joins Human Rights Campaign From Equality Florida

The activist and author will serve as national press secretary for the organization.

Hillary Clinton Tells Mormons She'll Defend 'Religious Freedom'

The fraught phrase is usually the stuff of Republicans, but the top Democrat has her own twist.

Study: LGBT Info on Resume Means Fewer Responses

In the study, two fake resumes were sent to employers, and the applicant with a history of LGBT activism got fewer responses despite listing more qualifications.

These are the most challenged library books in America — yes, most are LGBTQ+

Gender Queer, All Boys Aren't Blue, and This Book Is Gay lead the American Library Association's list of the 10 most challenged books of 2023.

There have already been 4,000 instances of book banning in America this school year: report

PEN America’s latest findings shed light on the targeted censorship of content related to race, sexuality, and violence, sparking advocacy and resistance across the nation.

There's Been a 33% Increase In Book Bans Across the U.S., Says PEN America

Florida has implemented the majority of bans in the U.S.

Freedoms for LGBTQ+ Americans Are on the Ballot: Make A Plan to Vote

Voters must choose lawmakers who will work to protect their privacy, private health decisions, and decisions personally affecting them and their families. 

Obama Slams Book Bans in Open Letter to American Librarians

The former president took aim at the recent push by right-wing extremists to ban books from public and school libraries.

Florida School District Bans All LGBTQ+ Books From K-8 Libraries

The policy appears at odds with “don’t say gay” laws, but the district claims there’s a loophole.

Opponents of Book Bans Outnumber Conservatives at New Mexico Library Meeting

Supporters of LGBTQ+ book bans called for a protest but instead opponents of such bans showed up in large numbers.

New Jersey just banned book bans with Freedom to Read Act

Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law the Freedom to Read Act, which prohibits public institutions from removing books based on the "origin, background, or views of the material or of its authors."

'You could ban our books, but you can’t ban the story': Authors speak out at Rep. Pressley event on book bans

“We have to fight for our freedom to read,” Pressley told the audience.

100-Year-Old Grandmother Slams Florida's Book Bans in Powerful Speech

She only had one minute to speak and she made the most of it.

Book ban attempts surge to record highs in 2023

The number of titles targeted rose 65 percent over 2022, according to the American Library Association.

How Teachers Are Being Silenced on LGBTQ+ Issues and More

In addition to laws that directly forbid mention of certain subjects, more subtle laws are having a negative impact, says a recent report from PEN America.

Ayanna Pressley Introduces Bill to Counter Book Bans Nationwide

In a bold response to the surge of book bans across the U.S., Massachusetts Rep. Ayanna Pressley is championing legislation to protect diverse literature in schools and libraries.

LGBTQ+ Books Given Warning Labels in Florida School District

Collier County Public Schools in Florida added the warnings to physical and online versions of books.