Scholastic changes policy, no longer allows schools to opt out of ‘diverse’ books at fairs.
Scholastic has reversed its decision to let school districts choose whether to sell books with LGBT themes and diverse titles at book fairs, following backlash. The publisher apologized for the move and acknowledged that it was a mistake. Previously, Scholastic had created a separate catalog for books on race, gender, and sexuality out of concern for inappropriate content. However, this decision sparked criticism from parents, teachers, and authors. The organization PEN America argued that segregating these books deprives students of diverse stories that promote empathy and understanding. An online petition against the catalog gained thousands of signatures. In response, Scholastic admitted its error and pledged to regain trust. The separate catalog will be discontinued, and the company is working on alternative ways to provide a wider range of books to children. Scholastic initially cited state legislation as the reason for the separate catalog, as many states have passed laws to prevent the distribution of sexually explicit or divisive materials in schools. Republican lawmakers argue that these laws protect children from inappropriate content, while the Biden administration promotes diversity and inclusion. Scholastic stated that these laws put them in a difficult position, as they risked legal consequences if they continued to offer certain titles.
What were the concerns raised by PEN America regarding Scholastic’s decision to segregate books with diverse themes?
Scholastic, the renowned publishing company, has recently made a startling decision to reverse its previous stance on selling books with LGBT themes and diverse titles at school book fairs. The company had initially allowed school districts to choose whether or not they wanted to include these books, but faced significant backlash as a result. In response, Scholastic has not only apologized for their misstep but also acknowledged that it was indeed a mistake.
Previously, Scholastic had decided to create a separate catalog for books centered around race, gender, and sexuality due to concerns regarding inappropriate content. However, this decision drew criticism from various quarters, including parents, teachers, and authors. PEN America, an organization focused on championing free expression, argued that segregating these books would deprive students of diverse stories that promote empathy and understanding. As a sign of their disagreement with this approach, an online petition against the separate catalog gained thousands of signatures.
Realizing the depth of the public’s displeasure, Scholastic admitted its error and vowed to regain trust. Consequently, the company has announced that the separate catalog will be discontinued, and they are actively working on alternative ways to offer a wider range of books to children. This move displays Scholastic’s commitment to rectifying their mistake and ensuring that all children have access to books that depict various human experiences.
Scholastic initially cited state legislation as the reason behind their decision to create a separate catalog. Many states have passed laws aimed at preventing the distribution of sexually explicit or divisive materials in schools. Republican lawmakers argue that these laws protect children from exposure to inappropriate content. On the other hand, the Biden administration advocates for diversity and inclusion. This clash of ideologies puts Scholastic in a difficult position, as they risked legal consequences by offering certain titles.
Despite the legal intricacies, Scholastic ultimately recognized the importance of inclusivity and diversity in literature. They acknowledged that segregating books based on specific themes only hinders children’s exposure to different perspectives and inhibits their ability to develop empathy and understanding for others.
Scholastic’s decision to reverse their earlier stance is commendable. It signifies their commitment to promoting diversity in literature and ensuring that children have access to stories that celebrate various identities and experiences. By discontinuing the separate catalog and seeking alternative approaches, Scholastic is taking a step towards rectifying their misjudgment and providing a broader range of literature to children.
In a world where understanding and acceptance of diversity are increasingly crucial, it is vital that publishers like Scholastic actively contribute towards inclusivity in children’s literature. This reversal of their decision is not just a win for those who spoke up against the separate catalog but also a reminder that inclusivity should be prioritized over perceived legislative pressures. Scholastic has proven that they are prepared to listen and learn from their mistakes, setting a commendable example for others in the publishing industry.
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