This article brought to you by Informed Carroll County.
Senator Justin Ready recently sounded off on social media regarding the Carroll County Times recent article claiming 2 more books “banned” by Carroll County Public Schools.
“‘Two more books deemed not appropriate for the school to be making available to children.’ Fixed it for you. Not banned. These books are fully legal and likely available at your public library.”
The false book ban narrative has been pushed by the Carroll County Public Library and others disenfranchised by the parental rights movement. The term “banned” implies a permanent and blanket removal of books, which is not accurate since all of the books are available in public libraries and can still be purchased by parents. The books, many of which include graphic sexual content, were deemed to be age-inappropriate and were brought to light after parents reported books that contained sexually inappropriate content.
Among the titles that were challenged is “Let’s Talk About It,” which contains cartoon depictions of sexual acts.
Excerpts from “Let’s Talk About It” – Found in Liberty High School Media Center. Parts of the image have been censored due to the sexually explicit content.
The Carroll County Times, owned by the Baltimore Sun, was recently purchased by David D. Smith of Sinclair Inc, marking the first time in almost four decades that the paper would have local ownership.
The “banned books” accusation has also been hurled at the Family Life Advisory Council (FLAC), a subcommittee of 31 parents, educators, and healthcare professionals selected by the Board of Education. The FLAC is responsible for reviewing the curriculum on family life, human sexuality, and gender identity.
Democrat-run social media pages accused the FLAC of “banning” two books as part of the proposed curriculum brought forward by school staff. Board Member Donna Sivigny clarified in a March 13th Board of Education meeting that the FLAC does not have the authority to approve materials but instead recommends to the board not to approve certain materials. While the books in question have not been recommended for family life and gender identity lesson plans, they will continue to be available in public school libraries.
