Book bans are not a new phenomenon. They have always been a tool of oppression. History shows us that, in all kinds of countries, books have repeatedly been banned and burned in order to conceal facts, perpetuate lies, suppress thought, and exert control.
This makes the current trend in the U.S. all the more alarming. There, objections to books in public schools and libraries are on the rise. Books written by LGBTQIA+ or BIPOC authors—or those that address topics such as diversity, racism, sexuality, or history—are particularly affected.
A democracy thrives on freedom of speech and freedom of information. To that end, it is important to learn about different perspectives and to be open to controversial ideas in order to form one’s own opinion. Those who ban books not only restrict access to literature but also undermine freedom of thought.
No democracy should tolerate that.