AAUW NJ calls for Assembly Education Committee to support Freedom to Read Act.
AAUW vigorously resists any attempts to ban or censor books or other media.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 6, 2024 —
The New Jersey State Affiliate of the American Association of University Women (AAUW NJ) calls upon Assembly Education Committee to support the Freedom to Read Act. AAUW NJ unites with other progressive advocacy groups to recognize the importance of protecting our intellectual freedom in New Jersey.
According to the American Library Association, there were 14 attempts to restrict access to a total of 28 unique book titles in New Jersey schools and public libraries in 2023 continuing a trend from 2022. Censorship in any form can be dangerous to a free and democratic society. The Freedom to Read Act is an important legislation establishes requirements for free expression and diverse, inclusive, age-appropriate content in public school and public libraries and protects school library media specialists and librarians from harassment.
“Challenges to books—both modern and classic—undermine teachers’ ability to share knowledge and deny students the ability to learn and grow,” said Sharon Suber, President of AAUW NJ, and a former public-school educator herself. “In the last two years, bans have targeted children’s books focused on the Civil Rights Era, books with protagonists of color, and books whose themes include sexual orientation, identity, and gender. We cannot allow censorship and intolerance towards members of our LGBTQ and Black communities to be infused into public school and library system. It’s time for New Jersey to send a strong message in support of the First Amendment and for the right of every parent to decide what is right for their child.”
About American Association of University Women of New Jersey (AAUW NJ)
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. AAUW NJ is the state affiliate of AAUW, representing almost a thousand members in 18 branches and 9 colleges throughout the state. Our branches and members are active across New Jersey — from Sussex County in the North, all the way to Cape May County. Learn more and join us at aauwnj.org.