School districts across Texas have launched investigations into their library systems for allegedly inappropriate material in a move that has left many writers outraged.
Rep. Matt Krause sent a letter to Texas school districts on Monday asking them to check their libraries and classrooms for a list of 850 books he had compiled. While the books are not yet banned, several authors have commented on their books being listed and consider the investigation “a fight,” according to the Houston Chronicle.
“A couple of folks have reached out about my book being banned,” author Mikki Kendall wrote on Twitter. “And y’all I am in great company, but also? This is a fight. I know how to do that.”
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A couple of folks have reached out about my book being banned. And y’all I am in great company, but also? This is a fight. I know how to do that. They banned Hood Feminism. They didn’t ban Amazons, Abolitionists & Activists or Wonder Women of The World. I’ll write more books
— Mikki Kendall (@Karnythia) October 27, 2021
Cinderella Is Dead is on this list. I’d like Matt Krause to know that nothing he does will keep my work out of the hands of young readers. Texas educators are,for the most part, amazing people and we work together to make sure the work gets to the kids who need it most. ??? https://t.co/08OUtv2KZL
— Kalynn Bayron (@KalynnBayron) October 27, 2021
“They banned Hood Feminism,” Kendall continued. “They didn’t ban Amazons, Abolitionists & Activists or Wonder Women of the World. I’ll write more books.”
In addition to checking districts’ catalogs, Krause instructed educators to provide information on any books in their collection that violate House Bill 3979. The bill was signed by Gov. Greg Abbott in June 2021 and bans the teaching of critical race theory in public schools.
Texas House committee to investigate school districts’ books on race and sexuality https://t.co/Zg94RGHuv7 via @TexasTribune. Four (4) of these books are mine. So proud. ? #lifegoals
— Professor Duchess Harris (@harris_duchess) October 27, 2021
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Though some authors assume the books on Krause’s list will be banned from schools, Krause’s letter only states the books are being investigated. Krause did not elaborate on why the specific 850 books made the list, and he has not indicated what steps he plans to enact.
Texas school officials have until Nov. 12 to respond to Krause’s request.
