By Tayler Simon Contributor for the CUBN
In recent years, the topic and act of book censorship and bans have gained significant traction, especially as we move into 2025. This surge in book bans isn't just a fleeting trend but a growing movement that threatens the very fabric of our education and public library systems in South Carolina and, more broadly, the United States. This post will delve into some of the significant trends around book censorship, the underlying politics, and what we can do to combat this worrying trend.
The Rise of Book Bans
The journey toward increased book bans can be traced back to around 2022, from where it has expanded dramatically. Much of this movement is tied to larger political agendas, like Project 2025, which promotes the erosion of public education and libraries, favoring privatization instead and championed by groups such as Moms4Liberty. This has been especially evident in states like South Carolina, where public funds are being redirected to private institutions, marking a critical step in undercutting public education.
Strategies Behind Book Banning
Across the U.S., different strategies have emerged targeting the exclusion of certain books from school and public libraries. One alarming method is the use of subjective rating systems, such as those by Moms4Liberty. Their website, BookLooks, provides taken-out-of-context excerpts as justification for banning books, impacting decisions in states like South Carolina.
Similarly, technology is being leveraged with AI tools in states like Texas to flag potentially “inappropriate” content in books. This raises concerns about the biases ingrained in these technologies, particularly against LGBTQ+ literature or works by authors of color (Black authors especially).
Another burgeoning trend is the sweeping bans of books based on vague themes. For instance, titles exploring LGBTQ+ relationships or topics outside the gender binary face unjust scrutiny, even when no explicit content exists. For example, books like Flamer by Mike Curato and All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson have been targeted for a statewide ban here in South Carolina.
The Political and Educational Implications
The problem extends beyond books to the very structure of our educational systems. Vouchers for private schooling, often rooted in historical segregationist practices, exemplify this issue. These systems exploit public funds, hindering public education and particularly affecting marginalized communities.
One critical factor in mitigating these trends is through engagement in school board elections, which often go unnoticed due to larger political scenes like presidential elections (especially our last election in 2024). However, these roles are pivotal, as school boards decide what resources are available to students. We observe key influences here, with candidates backed by conservative groups like Moms4Liberty entering these critical positions and even advancing their political careers further from these positions.
Legislative Trends and Education
States like South Carolina and Utah are setting concerning precedents with statewide book bans, with other states likely to follow. Seven books have officially been banned from public schools in South Carolina so far, including A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas , A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas, A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas, Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover, and Damsel by Elana K. Arnold. The introduction of laws threatening public library funding based on book content is becoming more common, leaving many libraries fearful of losing vital financial support.
Despite these challenges, there have been victories, such as the defamation lawsuit won by a Louisiana librarian against false accusations from book censorship advocates. Such legal wins provide hope and underscore the community’s power and the importance of standing up for our rights.
What We Can Do
It’s crucial to remain informed about book censorship trends and to support our educators and librarians. Participation in local school board and state education meetings is vital, even if you don’t have direct connections to the school systems. You don’t have to show up to every meeting to publicly testify, but you can engage with them online or via email. Advocacy for the freedom of information and education for all is more important than ever.
To stay updated on these matters, consider subscribing to newsletters like the Book Riot Literary Activism newsletter, which offers detailed insights into book censorship news. You can also follow Liberation is Lit on social media and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more updates on book censorship. Engaging on social media and educational forums can help spread awareness and drive change.
Together, through stories and shared knowledge, we can resist censorship and advocate for a society where education and access to varied information are rights enjoyed by everyone. Let's continue to fight for the freedom to learn and stay informed, so every child has the future they deserve.
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