(Original version published 6/6/23, has been updated.)
The current story of book bans is interwoven with the story of skyrocketing censorship attempts and proposals to target LGBTQ people and especially, transgender and nonbinary youth.
Book bans disingenuously purport to be about protecting children and parents’ rights, when their true intent is aimed at limiting the rising visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ people and youth. LGBTQ parents, parents of LGBTQ children, and our allies have rights too, including deciding what their own children can read.
The vast majority of bans target books by and about LGBTQ people and all people of color. They harm every person and every taxpayer, fueling division and diverting resources that limit a community’s chance at success.
But communities are fighting back, and winning. GLAAD created this guide for communities to write their own stories of acceptance and support. LGBTQ books and people belong. Here’s how you can spread the word:
