Why I’m Celebrating the Judge’s Decision to Block Most of Iowa’s Book Ban Law
Image source: Pexels.com
Hi there, cherished readers! I hope the new year is treating you well and that you are having a great day. Today, I have some wonderful news to share with you. A federal judge has temporarily overturned the majority of an Iowa legislation that prohibits teachers from bringing up LGBTQ+ problems in the classroom and removes certain books from school libraries. This is a major win for diversity, education, and free speech!
What is the book prohibition law in Iowa, and what makes it so bad?
The Republican-led legislature enacted the Iowa book prohibition law, also known as House File 802, and Governor Kim Reynolds signed it into law in May 2023. Its two primary provisions are detrimental to educators, librarians, and students.
The clause regarding the book ban
It outlaws the use of literature in classrooms and school libraries that show or discuss any kind of sexual act. This is quite general and ambiguous; it might cover anything from LGBTQ+ stories to health education to classic literature.
The clause requiring silent for LGBTQ+
Through the sixth grade, teachers are prohibited from discussing gender identity and sexual orientation concerns with their students. This is extremely discriminatory and overbroad; it may also restrict teachers from responding to inquiries from LGBTQ+ students or their friends or family members, as well as from bullying and harassment.
The First Amendment rights of free expression and academic freedom, as well as the Fourteenth Amendment rights of equal protection and due process, are violated by these clauses, making them unconstitutional. Additionally, they violate the best practices and educational standards that support inclusiveness, diversity, and respect for all pupils.
What does the judge’s decision entail and how did she block the law?
Judge Stephen Locher issued a preliminary injunction on December 29, 2023, which stops the law’s enforcement until a final decision is rendered. According to him, there is a good chance that the plaintiffs—which include the Iowa State Education Association, Penguin Random House, and a number of writers—will win their case on the merits.
According to the judge, the book prohibition is “incredibly broad” and has caused the removal of hundreds of works from Iowan classrooms, including classics, history books, award-winning novels, and even literature meant to protect children from sexual assault. He stated that it is unlikely that this section of the law will meet the criteria of the constitution for free speech.
Additionally, he claimed that the clause prohibiting gender identity and sexual orientation from being discussed in elementary schools is “wildly overbroad” and would intimidate educators and pupils. According to him, the equal protection article of the constitution, which forbids discrimination on the basis of sex or sexual orientation, is probably violated by this portion of the statute.
Because of the judge’s ruling, the law will not be enforceable until the matter is settled, which may take several months or even years. It also means that educators can return to teaching and discussing LGBTQ+ matters without fear of repercussions, and that schools can put back the materials that were taken out of their classrooms and libraries.
Why does this matter to you and me?
As a bookworm and blogger, I am overjoyed with the judge’s ruling. Books, in my opinion, are incredibly useful resources for education, exploration, and self- and other-understanding. I believe that a broad selection of texts that both educate kids to many viewpoints and cultures and mirror their own experiences should be available to them.
In addition, I am relieved by the judge’s ruling as a person and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I understand how difficult it can be to grow up feeling different and alone, and how important it is to have classmates and instructors who are understanding and knowledgable. I am also aware of the suffering that comes from being the target of prejudice and restriction because of who you are and who you love. I hope that this ruling will benefit everyone who loves diversity and inclusion by making Iowa schools safer and more accepting of LGBTQ+ students and staff.
How can you follow updates and lend support to this cause?
I sincerely hope that you will be as happy and appreciative of this ruling as I am, and that you will rejoice with me over this win for free expression.
Additionally, I hope that you will keep up the support for the plaintiffs and their attorneys in their battle to defend our books and our rights. You may help them do this by spreading the word, signing petitions, contributing to their causes, and keeping up with their developments.
We are appreciative of your participation in this wonderful community and for reading this blog article. I value your opinions and suggestions, and I hope to hear from you soon. Happy reading and happy Pride until then!
0