FLORIDA - The Florida Department of Education has banned 55 books from public school libraries statewide, citing concerns over inappropriate and pornographic content.
This decision has generated controversy, especially in Broward County, where some parents and advocacy groups are raising concerns about the state's authority in making these decisions.
Among the banned titles are Choke, This Book Is Gay, Forever, and Breathless, which the state describes as containing explicit material, including graphic depictions of sexual acts and male genitalia.
Some of the content in these books was deemed too explicit to broadcast on television.
Stephana Ferrell, a parent and director of the Florida Freedom to Read Project, expressed opposition to the state’s directive, arguing that local communities should have the final say.
She emphasized that parents should be involved in the decision-making process regarding what is appropriate for their children.
“This bypasses local input,” Ferrell told Local 10 News, calling for a local review before books are removed from school libraries.
Under current state law, parents can challenge books within their school district, with challenges reviewed by a committee.
Ferrell argued that the state’s action ignores this process, removing the opportunity for local input.
Broward County schools were given until Tuesday to comply with the directive.
While 55 books are currently on the list, critics fear more could be added.