STAFF EDITORIAL

Fill The Shelves

In the past year, various laws have passed restricting the choice of books available at schools. As part of Florida’s education reforms, the HB 1467 Law requires media specialists to evaluate books in school libraries to ensure appropriateness and make sure they do not contain pornography or race-based teachings, among other topics. In addition, it also orders that books provided from kindergarten to third grade must omit topics of sexual orientation and gender identity. If teachers are found teaching any banned books, they can face potential felony charges.

Many students and parents feel as though these rules express unfairness and are doing a disservice to their education. Following the banning of 176 books in Duval County Schools in Jacksonville, FL., teachers and parents expressed their concern about censoring students’ education. Books like “Before She Was Harriet” by Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome and “Dumpling Soup” by Jama Kim Rattigan and Lillian Hsu-Flanders are banned.

Here at The Panther, we pride ourselves on informing others on various topics, no matter the issue. Those on staff gain inspiration from a plethora of novels and articles, with many provided at school. By limiting the diversity of books at schools, students’ learning of historical events and other cultures is hindered upon. The reality is that many banned books deal with subjects that invite conversation, and are realistic and timely. While it is understandable that certain topics should be taught in-depth by parents’ conversations with their children, schools must continue to create a foundation for students to learn. It is time to halt Florida book banning.

Gabriella Alvarez

Copy Editor g.alvarez.thepanther@gmail.com