Date: September 29th

Time: 7pm est

Location: Over zoom

Host: Lyndsie

Contact: lwall@defenseofdemocracy.org

Book we'll be discussing: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Several states in the U.S. have banned The Handmaid's Tale, including Texas, Florida and Oregon. The Handmaid's Tale was removed from schools and libraries across the United States in 2022. It's among some of the biggest titles that are not allowed in several states in the country. The list of banned books included 1,648 books and affected 5,049 schools in 32 states. 40% of the books addressed LGBTQ+ themes in one way or another, some featuring LGBTQ+ characters. Roughly 40% of the books have characters of color, and 21% touch on the topics of race and racism.

In the case of Texas, a recent law has been passed to address the discussions of "human sexuality" and "material that might make students feel discomfort... or convey that a student, by virtue of their race or sex, is inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously" in classroom settings. The Handmaid's Tale, with its inclusion of an LGBTQ character and the discussion of feminism, religious extremism and sexuality, ended up on the list of 800 books that are banned in the state. Texas schools have also cited profanity and anti-Christian sentiment for their decision to ban The Handmaid's Tale.

Ready to strike a blow against the forces of darkness banning books in America? Join our Readout campaign during Banned Books Week where Defense of Democracy volunteers across the country will be hosting book readings that feature their favorite banned books. Readout events last year raised awareness of the growing menace of book banning, and raised money to help us overturn these pernicious bans.

Want to host your own Readout event? You can register <here>.

About Defense of Democracy:

In the spring of 2022, two moms in a small upstate New York town came together to fight back against three school board candidates endorsed by the hate group Moms for Liberty. Karen Svoboda and Laura Leigh Abby were quickly joined by a dedicated team of parents and advocates. Working together, we were able to double voter turnout—and defeat all three candidates.

Since our incorporation in October 2022, Defense of Democracy has established chapters across the country, mobilizing communities and protecting our families and public schools.

Defense of Democracy is made up of people from all walks of life, including our affiliate groups Veterans Defending Democracy, Students Defending Democracy and Faith Leaders Defending Democracy.

Importantly, our organization is passionately committed to nonpartisanship and welcomes anyone who opposes the oppression of their fellow Americans, particularly those in marginalized communities. Some of our most vocal advocates are individuals who consider themselves conservative but happen to know and love people who are in communities that are under attack.

Freedom Readers

By Defense of Democracy, Inc.

Freedom Readers

Celebrate Banned Books Week 2024 - September 29