SAMPLE LETTER FROM PARENTS

[Feel free to cut, paste and adapt!]

Dear [Principal/School Administrator/Board Chair/Librarian],

I am writing to express concern about efforts to remove [Book Title] from the [curriculum/shelves] at [School/Library Name]. I understand that the book has been challenged because of objections to __________________.

As a parent and advocate of the right of children to read, I believe removing [Book Title] solely based on these objections would be a terrible disservice to your students. I have read [Book Title] and I think it is a valuable book for students to read because _________________.

I strongly urge you to keep this book in the [curriculum/shelves] at [School/ Library Name] and to uphold the freedom to read for all students in our community. The Supreme Court has ruled that the right of all children to read books free of viewpoint discrimination is guaranteed by the First Amendment. Not everyone in our community shares the views of those opposed to [Book Title] and the challengers have no right to impose their views on others or demand that the educational program reflect their personal preferences.

If parents do not want their children to read a particular book, then they are free to request an alternative assignment. But they may not infringe upon the rights of others to read the book or tell other parents what their children may read.

Furthermore, restricting access to the book will only chill free expression in our community. It will discourage [teachers/librarians] from introducing new ideas and expanding children’s minds. It will dissuade children from asking questions, for fear of addressing “offensive” or “inappropriate” topics. It will teach them that fear and ignorance supersede the quest for knowledge.

Reading is the safest way for kids to learn about the world in which they are growing up, and doing so in a classroom setting, with guided discussion, will only help them anticipate and appreciate real-life problems.

I therefore urge you to ensure that [District Name] policies are followed and that [Book Title] remains available to students at [School /Library Name].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]