In a bold move, pop icon Pink has revealed plans to distribute 2,000 banned books during her upcoming concerts in Florida.
Collaborating with PEN America and the Florida-based Books & Books, Pink aims to confront the alarming surge in book bans, particularly those targeting authors exploring themes of race and sexual identity.
Recent data disclosed by PEN America indicates that Florida surpassed Texas in the previous school year, emerging as the state with the highest number of banned books in public school classrooms and libraries nationwide.
The bans disproportionately affect literature addressing race, racism, and LGBTQ identities, notably impacting works by Black and LGBTQ authors.
Expressing her concern, Pink declared her unwillingness to passively witness the banning of books in educational institutions.
She highlighted the disturbing trend of authorities targeting works centered on race, racism and those by LGBTQ authors and individuals of color. Pink affirmed her support for PEN America and echoed the organization’s stance: no more banned books.
The announcement was made during an Instagram live session featuring Pink, poet-activist Amanda Gorman, and PEN America CEO Suzanne Nossel.
As part of her 2023 Trustfall tour, Pink intends to distribute four books in Miami and Sunrise – “The Family Book” by Todd Parr, “The Hill We Climb” by Gorman, “Beloved” by Toni Morrison, and a book from the “Girls Who Code” movement founded by Reshma Saujani.
PEN America reported a nationwide spike of 33% in book bans, with Florida contributing to over 40% of documented instances.
According to the organisation, the state’s restrictive laws and policies, serving as a national model, have fueled a movement resulting in nearly 6,000 documented book bans since 2021.
Source: wionews.com
