Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 14, 2024 11:13 pm GMT
Over 30 celebrities are joining forces in a significant auction aimed at combating the alarming rise of book bans targeting LGBTQ+ literature in schools. Spearheaded by the nonprofit organization Pride and Less Prejudice (PLP), this initiative not only raises funds but also raises awareness about the impact of censorship on education. The auction, titled #BannedTogether, takes place from September 26 to September 29, 2023, with a goal of raising $20,000 to distribute 1,600 free LGBTQ-inclusive books to elementary classrooms across the United States.
Celebrity Contributions
The auction features an impressive lineup of celebrities donating unique items and experiences. Participants include:
- Singer Janelle Monáe
- Actor Daniel Radcliffe
- Interior designer Bobby Berk
- Drag queens Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme
- Tennis legend Billie Jean King
- Singer Jason Mraz
- Comedians Margaret Cho and Hannah Gadsby
- Musician Sara Bareilles
- Author Casey McQuiston
Each celebrity has contributed items such as signed books and personalized photos. Daniel Radcliffe, known for his role as Harry Potter, offers a signed photo, while Big Freedia donates a signed vinyl. The auction is not just about items; it includes unique experiences like a virtual meet-and-greet with Nicole Maines, a transgender actress from “Supergirl,” and tickets to the festive holiday show featuring Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme.
Big Freedia has expressed heartfelt support for this cause, sharing, “I’m thrilled to support Pride and Less Prejudice in their mission to bring LGBTQ+ inclusive books into classrooms and early education centers. 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!”
A Critical Context
This auction aligns with Banned Books Week, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about challenges to literary works. Reports indicate that over 10,000 books were banned from U.S. public schools during the 2023-2024 academic year alone, nearly tripling the amount from the previous year. According to PEN America, a freedom-of-expression advocacy group, there were 3,362 recorded book bans in 2023, impacting access to over 1,500 titles.
Lisa Forman, founder of Pride and Less Prejudice, expressed concern over this troubling trend. “In 2023, the American Library Association saw a 65 percent increase in the number of titles targeted for censorship compared to 2022, focusing mostly on books about and by LGBTQ+ people and people of color,” she stated.
The Need for Inclusivity
The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated. Since its inception in 2019, Pride and Less Prejudice has already raised over $250,000, enabling the donation of more than 16,000 LGBTQ-inclusive books to Pre-K through third-grade classrooms in all 50 states. The organization’s goal is clear: to ensure that students have access to literature that reflects diverse identities and experiences, thereby allowing all children to see themselves represented in the stories they read.
Educators emphasize the importance of providing inclusive materials. “Representation in literature is essential for fostering understanding and empathy in young learners,” one teacher remarked. “These books can play a key role in helping students appreciate diversity and build a more inclusive world.”
A Call to Action
As more schools face challenges in providing comprehensive and inclusive education, efforts like the #BannedTogether auction are vital. With a user-centric approach, the fundraising event not only engages celebrities but also mobilizes the community to stand against censorship and advocate for the freedom to read.
For those interested in supporting this cause, participating in the auction is a practical way to contribute. In addition to enjoying experiences and acquiring unique items, each bid helps to promote access to literature that champions inclusivity and diversity in education.
Conclusion
The #BannedTogether auction from Pride and Less Prejudice reminds us how important books are for helping people understand and accept each other. This event brings together celebrities, teachers, and the community to fight against the increasing censorship in schools. It makes sure that all students can access important stories. When we join together, we can help create a world where every child can see their identity celebrated in the books they read.
