"It's not about the books. It's never been about the books," says Kelly Jensen, an award-winning author and editor at Book Riot. "Books are just very easy and convenient tools."
In 2023, the American Library Association (ALA) recorded the highest number of titles targeted for censorship in over 20 years, with a focus on LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC voices among the most challenged books.
These bans and challenges reflect a broader political movement aiming to undermine trust in public institutions like schools and libraries, transcending political divides.
Political groups, including some of the country's most influential conservatives, are behind the book bans, using local organizing tactics to gradually gain control and escalate the culture war.
Local groups like Moms for Liberty play a significant role in causing book bans, demonstrating that even small factions can have a substantial impact on censorship efforts.
Efforts are needed to stand up against censorship and ensure inclusion in communities facing book bans, with resources available to support these actions.
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