Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 14, 2024 11:58 pm GMT
In a bold move to combat censorship in education, over 30 celebrities are joining forces in an auction aiming to raise funds for LGBTQ+ books in classrooms. This initiative, organized by the non-profit group Pride and Less Prejudice (PLP), seeks to provide 1,600 free LGBTQ-inclusive books to elementary schools across the United States. The urgency of this campaign echoes the staggering rise in book bans targeting LGBTQ+ themes and characters, emphasizing the importance of representation for young readers.
Star-Studded Auction Aims to Raise $20,000
The fourth annual #BannedTogether virtual auction will take place from September 26 to September 29, and it aims to raise $20,000. The auction proceeds will specifically fund the distribution of LGBTQ-inclusive books to pre-kindergarten through third-grade classrooms nationwide. Since its inception in 2019, Pride and Less Prejudice has garnered over $250,000, which has enabled them to donate more than 16,000 books to students in all 50 states.
Among the celebrities participating are actor Daniel Radcliffe, singer Janelle Monáe, interior designer Bobby Berk, tennis legend Billie Jean King, and comedians such as Hannah Gadsby and Margaret Cho. Each has generously donated items or experiences for the auction, including:
- A signed and personalized book from Janelle Monáe
- A signed photo from Daniel Radcliffe
- Tickets to a live performance by Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme
- A virtual meet-and-greet with Nicole Maines
- Signed vinyl records from Big Freedia
Big Freedia expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “As a young gay boy in New Orleans during the ’80s, having access to a book that addressed these themes or featured LGBTQ+ characters would have profoundly impacted my life!” Such sentiments echo a growing concern among activists about the necessity of representation in literature.
Escalating Book Bans and Their Impact
The auction coincides with Banned Books Week, an annual event aimed at raising awareness about the challenges to intellectual freedom. In a stark report from PEN America, it was revealed that more than 10,000 books were banned from public schools during the 2023-2024 academic year, a threefold increase from the previous year. This dramatic rise particularly affects books featuring LGBTQ+ characters and themes.
Lisa Forman, the founder of Pride and Less Prejudice, highlighted the troubling trend saying, “In 2023, the American Library Association saw a 65 percent increase in the number of titles targeted for censorship compared to 2022, with a focus on books by and about LGBTQ+ people and people of color.” Forman emphasized PLP’s mission to ensure that all students see themselves and their families represented in the literature they read.
The Importance of Inclusive Literature
Access to LGBTQ-inclusive books is crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment. Students benefit from seeing diverse perspectives, which can enhance their understanding and acceptance of different identities. Research shows that literature that reflects a range of experiences can lead to greater empathy and awareness in young readers.
In schools where LGBTQ-inclusive books are available, students often feel more accepted and less alone. These themes are increasingly vital, especially when organizations that fight against censorship are working hard to expand students’ access to varied narratives.
Activists and educators affirm that providing these resources is not just about books; it’s about supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of students. As Big Freedia poignantly noted, representation matters.
Join the Fight Against Censorship
Everyone can play a part in this critical fight against censorship. Supporters are encouraged to participate in the auction or promote awareness during Banned Books Week. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for individuals to not only acquire unique items but also contribute to a cause that champions diversity and acceptance in education.
Whether it’s through attending the auction, sharing information, or simply discussing the value of inclusive literature with friends and family, every action can make a difference.
Pride and Less Prejudice continues to lead the charge in promoting libraries filled with diverse literature, and this auction is a statement against growing book bans. As quoted by Lisa Forman, “We are committed to ensuring that students have access to LGBTQ-inclusive books at school and in their libraries.”
This is an ongoing battle, and the stakes could not be higher. By standing together and advocating for free access to information, we can help create an equitable future for all students.
Final Thoughts
In a landscape where book bans are on the rise, it’s heartening to see a collective of celebrities uniting to support a cause that uplifts marginalized voices in literature. The efforts of Pride and Less Prejudice through auctions like #BannedTogether not only raise funds but also spark discussions about the importance of inclusive education. The future of our children’s understanding of love, diversity, and acceptance can greatly benefit from these measures. By contributing to this cause, you’re helping pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.
Check out the Pride and Less Prejudice website to see the auction items and join in. Let’s team up to make a positive change!
