A Statement on the Supreme Court Decision in Mahmoud v Taylor

Upon reading A Statement on the Supreme Court Decision in Mahmoud v Taylor written by longtime member of the SCBWI Advisory Council and member of the SCBWI Anti-Censorship Committee, Ellen Hopkins, I was interested in reading more on the Mahmoud v Taylor case.

After reading the Supreme Court's ruling of Mahmoud v Taylor, "parents challenged school curriculum that involved 'LGBTQ+-inclusive' books—and a policy disallowing opt-outs from that curriculum—which they argued violated their right to raise their children in accordance with their religious beliefs." But the pitfall of this is, what will be the metrics/rubric of these "opt-out" options? Will it be based in fact? Will there be any counsel on this? And what are the long term affects?

With local education boards discerning what curriculum should or should not be on the list to opt-out, it opens the door for other types of stories, themes and art to be challenged. Thankful to have grown up in a very diverse community, I've also seen how misunderstanding, and lack of knowledge/exposure can lead to lack of empathy, and fear. 

As children's book writers and illustrators, we understand this principle. Children deserve to see themselves and their lives reflected in the world around them. And in having diverse stories, it allows the reader to immerse themselves in the lives of others who they never may have had the chance to know—sparking curiosity and again, empathy. 

Amidst a landscape where every day we are presented with more and more obstacles and changes like book challenges, book bans and global crises, it is important to seek out and understand what is happening but also, find pockets of hope and community.

This makes me think back to the informative and rich conversation had during the "UnBanning Books: Bold Creators Take a Stand - A Panel Discussion"that kicked off the SCBWI Summer Virtual Conference. There was a major emphasis on community building, activism in your art as well as joining organizations that are actively combatting book bans and challenges. Though it can seem hopeless, we mustn't give up and now, more than ever, we must band together. 

Jaime Temairik and Justin Campbell covered some of the highlights from the panel. Check it out HERE and HERE!

As the navigate through an uncertain world, it can feel overwhelming, and at times, fraught but that is when we must lean into our work. Use your art as activism. Especially now, when the world needs our stories more than ever.