Christian author-actor Kirk Cameron made headlines on Friday as he read to children outside the New York Public Library after being denied space inside 20 different library branches. The incident sparked a larger discussion about freedom and censorship. Meanwhile, the controversial American Library Association (ALA) is set to receive the “2023 Barbara Bush National Literacy Honors Award” from the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, despite facing backlash for its president’s self-declared Marxist and lesbian identity.
The ALA’s president, Emily Drabinski, caused controversy with a social media post in which she expressed her excitement about being elected as the organization’s leader and declared herself a “Marxist lesbian.” These comments raised concerns among critics who believe that the ALA should not be promoting and endorsing such political ideologies. Additionally, the ALA has been accused of promoting “intersectionality” and LGBT stories and authors specifically targeted towards children and young adults.
As a result of Drabinski’s comments and the ALA’s policies, several states, including Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Wyoming, have taken steps to cut ties with the organization. Texas and Montana have already succeeded in ending their association with the ALA, with lawmakers arguing that they should not be subsidizing dangerous Marxist ideologies with taxpayers’ money.
The controversy surrounding the ALA’s award from the Barbara Bush Foundation has reignited debates about Marxism and censorship in libraries. Marxism, a political philosophy associated with the rise of communist states, has long been controversial and unpopular in the United States. Critics argue that honoring an organization led by an avowed Marxist sends the wrong message and undermines the foundation’s mission.
The Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy has defended its decision, stating that the award is meant to recognize outstanding achievements and contributions towards literacy, and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any individual’s personal or political views. The foundation’s interim president and CEO, Andrew Roberts, emphasized the importance of literacy and carrying on Barbara Bush’s legacy.
The ALA, on the other hand, has maintained that it is a non-partisan and non-profit organization that does not align with or promote the political beliefs of its elected leaders. An ALA spokesperson expressed gratitude for the recognition from the Barbara Bush Foundation but reiterated the organization’s commitment to providing leadership for library and information services without endorsing any specific political ideologies.
The controversy surrounding the ALA’s award will likely continue to spark debates about freedom of expression, censorship, and the role of libraries in promoting diverse perspectives. As the National Celebration of Reading approaches, the event promises to bring together members of the Bush family, bestselling authors, and entertainers to advance the mission of the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.
