Washington DC–Following news that schools in Charlotte County, Florida, have banned all classroom use of books that include any LGBTQ character or reference for grades K-12, while prohibiting libraries serving all grades except 9-12 from stocking books with any LGBTQ character or reference, People For the American Way released the following statement:

“We strongly object to these repeated attacks on the freedom to learn. Censorship of books, art and speech is a tool of fascist and authoritarian regimes and is antithetical to the American Way. We are especially concerned about the Right’s attempt to silence the voices of people of color and the LGBTQ community, and to suppress the accurate teaching of American history. This is a disservice to students who deserve a well-rounded education and to a nation that relies on a well-educated citizenry to sustain our democracy and our competitiveness on the world stage.”

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About People For the American Way 

People For the American Way, a national progressive advocacy organization, inspires and mobilizes community and cultural leaders to advance Truth, Justice and the American Way. We convene courageous Americans, produce compelling media and organize campaigns to defend our democracy from authoritarian threats and advance America’s promise that everyone will enjoy freedom, safety and a vote that counts. Learn more: http://www.pfaw.org