#BreakTheTape With Us
By Monserrath Angel
On October 2nd, 2023, 400 students in several schools in the state of California, wrapped their backpacks with caution tape in honor of the #BreakTheTapecampaign which spread the word on the rising amount of banned books across the nation. Additionally, Golden State Readers opened up their 1000 Book Drive, a fundraiser that aims to raise one thousand books to donate to schools impacted by book bans. This year, we are partnering with the Golden State Readers, PEN America, Nixa Sabr, Public School Defenders Hub, The National Coalition Against Censorship, and others to continue our mission in making diverse literature available to all.
A significant goal reached in last year’s campaign was raising over $2,000! However, book bans remain a rising trend that continues to impact libraries and schools across the country.
A recent legislation is taking a stand against banned books. Governor Newsom has signed AB 1078 which banned book banning in more than 10,000 schools in California. The official website of the State of California states “WHAT GOVERNOR NEWSOM SAID: “From Temecula to Tallahassee, fringe ideologues across the country are attempting to whitewash history and ban books from schools. With this new law, we’re cementing California’s role as the true freedom state: a place where families — not political fanatics — have the freedom to decide what’s right for them.” Without this law, it would be hiding the truth of history and culture to newer generations.
Statistics from last years Break The Tape Campaign show that:
10,243 books have been banned within 3 years.
26% of banned books have LGBTQ+ characters.
30% of banned books have characters of color.
There has been a 92% increase in library book challenges from 2022-23.
Wondering how you can participate to show your support?
Wrap your backpack, school supplies, doors, or mail boxes to show your support.
Take photos and use the hashtag“ #BreakTheTape.” Tag @goldenstatereaders and @beatricemartinfoundation in your post!
Donate to the Beatrice Martin Foundation or the Golden State Readers to help fund access to diverse literature.
Spread awareness by sharing it with people you know!
For more information, go to www.goldenstatereaders.org!
