Florence University Holds Freedom to Read Rally Against Censorship
Florence, SC – Francis Marion University (FMU) has taken a strong stand against book censorship by hosting a Freedom to Read Rally on October 10. The event, coordinated by English Professor Jo Angela Edwins, emphasized the importance of unrestricted access to literature in line with the freedoms guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
What Was the Rally About?
The Freedom to Read Rally aimed to address growing concerns regarding the challenge of books in schools and libraries across the nation. Edwins highlighted that censorship goes against the principle of freedom that is foundational to American democracy. During the rally, a total of 18 speakers read excerpts from various books that have previously faced challenges, showcasing both children’s literature and classic adult novels.
Why Are Books Being Challenged?
According to data from the American Library Association, there were approximately 4,240 book titles targeted for censorship in 2023, alongside 1,247 demands to censor materials in libraries. These numbers reveal a significant escalation in efforts to restrict access to diverse literature. At the heart of the rally was a response to the new regulations introduced by the South Carolina Department of Education, stipulating strict criteria for instructional materials.
Regulations Impacting Education
The new “Uniform Procedure for Selection or Reconsideration of Instructional Materials” mandates that educational materials must refrain from depicting any form of “sexual conduct” as defined by state law. These regulations could threaten the presence of well-known works, including George Orwell’s “1984” and Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax,” from educational curriculums.
Passionate Readings and Reactions
During the rally, FMU Professor of Art Doug Gray read from the popular children’s book Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See. Education professor Kit SaizdeLaMora read from Mother Bruce, while English professor Lance Weldy focused on And Tango Makes Three, a story about two male penguins raising a chick. Weldy remarked that the book is often challenged due to its portrayal of same-sex parenting.
Other highlights included readings from classics like Kurt Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse-Five” and Pamela Rooks’ excerpts from “1984.” English Professor Rachel Spear-Cole shared passages from Strega Nona, a beloved children’s book that has also faced scrutiny for its magical themes. Spear-Cole emphasized the necessity of teaching a broad spectrum of literature.
The Importance of Access to Literature
The message from the participants was clear – book censorship poses a significant threat to education and personal freedom. Edwins reinforced that the ability to read diverse viewpoints and narratives helps preserve the very essence of freedom in America. “We believe the freedom America was founded upon only persists if we have a free exchange and expression of ideas, including ideas expressed in books,” she asserted.
Conclusion
The Freedom to Read Rally at Francis Marion University serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for access to literature and the dangers of censorship. By advocating for the right to read unencumbered, the university community is not only standing up for authors and titles but also for the fundamental principles of free expression that lie at the heart of American democracy.
