TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 6-10-23
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OTHER GREAT READS THIS WEEK FROM THE BIG EDUCATION APE
SMITH THROWS THE BOOK AT TRUMP
TRUMP INDICTMENT FULL TEXT
“We have one set of laws in this country, and they apply to everyone,” said Justice Department Special Counsel Jack Smith, who delivered a brief statement to the press on the indictment of former President Trump. Mr. Smith also urged the “defendants must be presumed innocent until proven guilty…in a court of law.” President Donald Trump was indicted on 37-counts, with 31counts related to violations of the Espionage Act
As news broke that former President Donald Trump had been indicted on 32 counts, the world collectively gasped. Finally, justice was being served to a man who had spent years flouting the law and thumbing his nose at authority. But let's be real, it was also pretty damn funny.
I mean, come on, this is a guy who once suggested injecting bleach as a cure for COVID-19. If anyone deserves to have the book thrown at them, it's him. And boy, did Smith throw that book hard.
The charges against Trump ranged from obstruction of justice to financial crimes, but let's be honest, we all know the real crime was his hair. Seriously, what was going on up there? It looked like a bird's nest made of cotton candy.
As we go to trial, we were treated to a never-ending stream of ridiculousness. From Trump's attempts to interfere with the investigation into his own actions to his lawyers' feeble attempts at a defense, it was all just one big comedy of errors.
But despite all of this, Trump remained defiant. He continued to insist that he had done nothing wrong, even as the evidence against him piled up higher than his combover. It was like watching a toddler deny that they ate the cookies even though there were crumbs all over their face.
And yet, if justice prevails, Trump will be found guilty on all 32 counts and sentenced to a lengthy prison term. It is a moment that many had been waiting for, but let's be honest, we were also kind of sad to see him go. Who besides the clown car of republican presidential hopefuls are we going to make fun of now?
As we move forward from this dark chapter in our nation's history, let's remember that no one is above the law. Not even a former reality TV star with a penchant for tweeting at 3am. And if we can learn anything from the downfall of Donald Trump, it's that karma is a bitch. So maybe next time, think twice before suggesting injecting bleach into your veins.
Read the full document here:
Read the full indictment text from the classified document probe https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/read-full-indictment-text-classified-document-probe-rcna88600
Read the full text of the Trump indictment in classified documents case - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/06/09/indictment-document-trump-classified-documents-pdf/
Trump indicted: Indictment unsealed, read it – KIRO 7 News Seattle https://www.kiro7.com/news/trending/trump-indicted-indictment-unsealed/7LAGG3MWLVFQJPW7GFRKDYFTHA/
VIRTUAL CHARTER SCHOOLS ARE LIKE NOT GOING TO SCHOOL
Virtual charter schools: the perfect solution for parents who want their kids to learn absolutely nothing while still technically attending school.
These online schools, run by for-profit companies that care more about their bottom line than actual education, have been growing in popularity in recent years. And why not? They offer students self-paced and asynchronous instruction, which is just a fancy way of saying "no instruction at all."
But it's not all sunshine and rainbows in the virtual charter school world. These schools have been plagued by scandals, controversies, and poor outcomes. And let's be honest, if you're going to go to a school where you learn nothing, you might as well do it in person.
Let's take a deep dive into the world of virtual charter schools.
## The Scandals
Virtual charter schools have been accused of everything from inflating enrollment numbers to misusing public funds for personal or corporate gain. And let's not forget about the unethical and illegal practices, like grade inflation, cheating, and plagiarism.
Some states have had more scandals than others. For example, California saw a network of 19 virtual charter schools agree to pay $215 million for inflating enrollment numbers, falsifying records, and spending public funds on non-educational purposes. Meanwhile, Ohio had its largest virtual charter school, ECOT, close abruptly in 2018 after owing $80 million to the state for overreporting student attendance. The school's founder was even indicted on federal charges of racketeering, conspiracy, and fraud.
## The Ineffectiveness
Not only are virtual charter schools scandal-ridden, but they also consistently show lower academic performance than other types of public schools. According to multiple studies and reports, virtual charter schools have lower test scores and proficiency rates in math and reading, lower graduation rates and college readiness, and higher student turnover and dropout rates.
So basically, if you want your child to learn absolutely nothing while also having a lower chance of graduating and being college-ready, virtual charter schools are the perfect choice.
## The Pros and Cons
Despite their scandals and ineffectiveness, virtual charter schools do offer some benefits and advantages to certain students and families. For example, they provide flexibility and convenience for students who have special needs or family responsibilities. They also provide more options and opportunities for students who live in rural areas.
But let's not forget about the cons. Virtual charter schools limit social interaction, emotional support, and academic feedback for students, which can affect their motivation and well-being. They also lack sufficient regulation, monitoring, and evaluation by state authorities, charter authorizers, and parents, which can enable fraud, waste, and abuse of public funds and trust. And let's not forget about how they drain resources, enrollment, and funding from traditional public schools, which can worsen the conditions and outcomes of the public education system.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, virtual charter schools are a great option if you want your child to learn absolutely nothing while also having a lower chance of graduating and being college-ready. But if you actually care about your child's education (and we hope you do), it might be best to steer clear of these scandal-ridden and ineffective online schools.
And if you're still not convinced, just remember: if you want your child to learn nothing at all, you can always just keep them at home. It's cheaper and you won't have to deal with any scandals or controversies. Plus, you can teach them all sorts of important life skills like how to binge-watch Netflix and how to make the perfect cup of ramen noodles. Who needs education when you have that?
Peter Greene: Virtual Charters Are a Waste of Time and Money https://dianeravitch.net/2023/06/09/peter-greene-virtual-chaerers-are-a-waste-of-time-and-money/ via @dianeravitch
Many Online Charter Schools Fail to Graduate Even Half of Their Students on Time https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/many-online-charter-schools-fail-to-graduate-even-half-of-their-students-on-time/2019/04
How for-profit virtual charter schools are selling families on staying remote https://hechingerreport.org/despite-mediocre-records-for-profit-online-charter-schools-are-selling-parents-on-staying-virtual/
Stanford study shows that online charter school students are lagging - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/stanford-study-shows-that-online-charter-school-students-are-lagging/2015/10/27/c42dc502-7cce-11e5-afce-2afd1d3eb896_story.html
The problem with online charter schools https://youtu.be/tfNzMKvoVOU via @YouTube
Say “No” to Religious Charter Schools | Cato at Liberty Blog https://www.cato.org/blog/say-no-religious-charter-schools
NEW GEORGIA PUBLIC EDUCATION RULES
FREAK TEACHERS TF OUT
As the new public education rules in Georgia roll out, educators are feeling the fear. And who can blame them? With so many changes happening all at once, it's enough to make even the most seasoned teacher break out in a cold sweat.
But fear not, my dear educators! For I have taken it upon myself to do a deep dive into these new rules and regulations, and I am here to report back with all the juicy details.
First up, let's talk about the new grading system. Instead of the traditional A-F scale, Georgia schools will now be using a 1-5 grading system. This is supposed to make it easier for parents and students to understand their grades, but let's be real – it's just going to confuse everyone even more.
Can you imagine trying to explain to your grandma that your 3 in math is actually a good thing? Good luck with that.
Next on the list is the new emphasis on career readiness. Apparently, Georgia wants to make sure that all students are prepared for the workforce, even if they're not planning on going to college. Which is all well and good, but let's not forget that these are still kids we're talking about.
Do we really want our high schoolers to be worrying about their future careers before they've even hit puberty? I don't know about you, but when I was in high school, I was more concerned with getting my crush to notice me than with what I was going to do for a living.
And let's not even get started on the new teacher evaluation system. According to the new rules, teachers will now be evaluated based on student performance, as well as their own professional growth and development.
On the surface, this seems like a good idea. After all, we want our teachers to be constantly improving and growing in their field. But let's be real – this is just going to lead to even more stress and pressure for our already overworked and underpaid educators.
I can just picture it now – teachers frantically trying to improve their own professional development while also making sure their students are performing at their best. It's enough to make me break out in hives.
But fear not, my dear educators! For as much as these new rules may seem daunting, there is always a silver lining. Maybe the new grading system will actually make sense once we get used to it. Maybe the career readiness emphasis will inspire our students to pursue their passions and find success in unexpected places.
And maybe – just maybe – the new teacher evaluation system will lead to better support and resources for our hardworking educators.
So let's take a deep breath, my fellow educators, and remember that we're all in this together. With a little bit of humor and a whole lot of determination, we can navigate these new rules and come out stronger on the other side.
And who knows – maybe one day we'll even be able to look back on these changes and laugh. But for now, let's just focus on getting through the school year without pulling out all our hair.
Educators ‘fearful’ of new public education rules in Georgia https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2023/06/09/educators-fearful-new-public-education-rules-georgia/
WHAT FRESH HELL IS STITT AND WALTERS COOKING FOR OKLAHOMA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
As if Oklahoma public education hasn't suffered enough, Governor Kevin Stitt and Education Secretary Ryan Walters are cooking up a new charter school hell for the Sooner State. And let me tell you, it's a real doozy.
First off, the Oklahoma Virtual Charter School Board is getting dissolved. Yes, you read that right. Dissolved. And what's happening to it? Oh, just being combined with another separate board. No big deal, right? Except when you consider that this move is being made by the same people who thought it was a good idea to give Epic Charter Virtual Charter School carte blanche to do a master class in corruption and mismanagement.
I mean, who needs accountability when you can just let MAGA run the show? That's right, folks. MAGA is in charge of Oklahoma's education system now. And they're doing their best to destroy it.
But let's not forget the history of underfunding of public education in Oklahoma. It's been going on for decades. And if you think that's bad, just wait until you hear about the Jim Crow era. That's right, folks. Oklahoma has a history of segregation and discrimination that still affects our education system today.
But hey, who needs a quality education when you can have a charter school that's run like a mafia organization? I mean, sure, your kids might not be learning anything useful, but at least they'll know how to dodge an audit like a pro.
And speaking of audits, let's talk about Epic Charter Virtual Charter School. This school has been under investigation for months now, and it's not looking good. They've been accused of embezzlement, grade inflation, and even enrolling students who don't exist. But hey, at least they're not boring, right?
In all seriousness, Oklahoma's education system deserves better than this. Our kids deserve better than this. We need leaders who actually care about public education and are willing to invest in it. We need leaders who won't let charter schools run amok and take resources away from our public schools.
So let's all take a deep dive into this new charter school hell that Stitt and Walters are cooking up. And let's demand better for our kids and our state. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck with a broken education system that only benefits the few at the expense of the many. And that's no laughing matter.
Oklahoma's Virtual Charter School Board to be dissolved https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-virtual-charter-school-board-dissolved/44132568
THE WORLD OF TWO SPIRIT
NATIVE AMERICANS HONOR, RESPECT AND LOVE OUR TWO SPIRIT RELATIVES
Are you ready to dive deep into the world of Two Spirit? If not, buckle up because we're about to take a wild ride!
First things first, let's talk about what Two Spirit means. It's a term used to describe Indigenous people who embody both feminine and masculine energy. And no, it's not a new concept. It's been around for centuries in Native cultures, but the term itself was coined in 1990 by Elder Myra Laramee at a Native American and First Nation LGBTQ conference in Winnipeg, Canada. So, it's kind of like the OG gender-fluid identity.
Before colonization, Two Spirit people were highly respected members of their tribes. They held important social and spiritual roles such as visionary, artist, healer, matchmaker, counselor, and warrior. Basically, they were the ultimate multitaskers. They were even seen as balance-keepers and keepers of knowledge in their living Indigenous cultures. Talk about goals!
Unfortunately, when European colonizers arrived, they brought with them their homophobic attitudes and binary understanding of gender. This led to the erasure and oppression of Two Spirit people. They were forced to hide their identities and traditions and faced violence and discrimination from both settlers and their own communities. It was a rough time for our Two Spirit relatives.
But don't worry, the story doesn't end there. In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of the Two Spirit identity and movement. More Indigenous people are reclaiming their history and role among their people. They're creating spaces for themselves and advocating for their rights and visibility within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. They're celebrating their diversity and resilience while honoring their ancestors who carried on their traditions in secret.
If you want to learn more about the Two Spirit community and their history and culture, there are plenty of resources out there. You can check out books like "Reclaiming Two-Spirits: Sexuality, Spiritual Renewal and Sovereignty in Native America" by Gregory Smithers or articles like "Here’s What It Means To Be ‘Two-Spirit,’ According To Native People" by Kelsey Borresen. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even attend a Two Spirit powwow or other cultural event.
If you want to learn more about the Two Spirit community and their history and culture, you can check out some of these sources:
In conclusion, Two Spirit is an important part of Indigenous culture and history. It's a reminder that gender is not binary and that diversity should be celebrated. So let's honor, respect, and love our Two Spirit relatives because they're pretty freaking awesome. And who knows, maybe we all have a little bit of Two Spirit energy within us.
Two Spirit and LGBTQ+ Identities: Today and Centuries Ago - Human Rights Campaign https://www.hrc.org/news/two-spirit-and-lgbtq-idenitites-today-and-centuries-ago
What Does Two Spirit Mean? Gender Meaning in Indigenous Community https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/a36744168/two-spirit-meaning/
8 Things You Should Know About Two Spirit People - ICT News https://ictnews.org/archive/8-misconceptions-things-know-two-spirit-people
Here's What It Means To Be 'Two-Spirit,' According To Native People. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-two-spirit-means-native_l_62aa0b3ce4b06169ca93c14e.
For centuries, Two-Spirit people had to carry out Native traditions in .... https://www.news.vcu.edu/article/2022/04/for-centuries-two-spirit-people-had-to-carry-out-traditions-in-secret.
History – 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations. https://2spirits.org/history/.
What Is the Two Spirit Community? - Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-two-spirit-community-5089204.
Bing, 6/8/2023
DONALD TRUMP IS BACK...
ON THE HOT SEAT AGAIN: INDICTED 7 COUNTS
It seems like Donald Trump just can't catch a break these days. According to sources, the former President has been indicted for a second time in relation to a classified documents investigation. The news has sent shockwaves through the political world, with many wondering what this means for Trump's future.
Of course, this isn't the first time that Trump has found himself in hot water. From the infamous Access Hollywood tape to the Stormy Daniels scandal, the former President has had his fair share of controversies. But this latest development is particularly noteworthy, as it marks the first time in history that a former President has been indicted twice.
So what exactly is Trump being accused of this time around? According to sources, the investigation centers around classified documents that were allegedly mishandled during Trump's time in office. While details are still scarce, some insiders have speculated that the documents in question may relate to Trump's infamous phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which ultimately led to his first impeachment.
Of course, Trump himself has been quick to dismiss the charges as baseless, calling them a "witch hunt" and accusing his political enemies of trying to take him down. But many others are taking the news seriously, with some even speculating that Trump could face serious jail time if convicted.
As expected, the reaction to the news has been mixed. Some Trump supporters have rallied around their hero, insisting that he is innocent and vowing to fight for his freedom. Others, however, have been less sympathetic, with many taking to social media to mock the former President and his latest legal troubles.
One Twitter user wrote: "Looks like Trump is about to get a taste of his own medicine. Maybe he should have thought twice before messing with classified documents." Another joked: "I guess 'lock her up' applies to him now too!"
But while the news may be serious, that doesn't mean we can't find some humor in the situation. After all, this is Donald Trump we're talking about - a man who has made a career out of saying and doing outrageous things. So in honor of his latest legal woes, here are a few lighthearted jokes to help us all get through the day:
- Why did Donald Trump cross the road? To get to the other side of the indictment.
- What do you call a former President who's been indicted twice? A double whammy.
- Why did Donald Trump refuse to share his classified documents? Because he didn't want anyone else to see how small they were.
Okay, so maybe these jokes aren't exactly Pulitzer Prize-winning material. But hey, sometimes you've got to laugh to keep from crying. And when it comes to Donald Trump, there's certainly no shortage of material to work with.
All joking aside, though, this latest development is a serious one - not just for Trump, but for our country as a whole. As we move forward into an uncertain future, it's important that we keep our sense of humor intact - but also that we remain vigilant and engaged in the political process. Who knows what other surprises may be lurking around the corner? One thing's for sure: with Donald Trump involved, it's bound to be a wild ride.
Donald Trump indicted for second time, in classified documents investigation: Sources https://abcnews.go.com/US/donald-trump-indicted-time-sources/story?id=99408228
Prosecutors Tell Trump’s Legal Team He Is a Target of Investigation https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/07/us/politics/trump-documents-florida-grand-jury.html?smid=tw-share
NETWORK FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION (NPE) REPORT: A SHARP TURN RIGHT
HOW FAR-RIGHT CHARTER SCHOOLS ARE FUELING THE CULTURE WARS
Hold on to your hats, folks, because we're about to take a deep dive into the world of far-right charter schools. Yes, you read that right. Apparently, there's a new breed of charter schools that are delivering the conservative agenda. And they're popping up faster than you can say "privatization."
According to a report by the Network for Public Education (NPE), American taxpayers are funding the growth of these far-right, Christian nationalist charter schools. And boy, are they growing. NPE identified hundreds of these schools, mostly in red states, that use conservative dog whistles to attract white Christian families. Because nothing says "education" like exclusionary practices, am I right?
From religious music videos to claims of being faith-friendly, these charter schools are opening at an alarming rate. And apparently, at least 66 more are set to open by 2024. Because who needs separation of church and state when you can just combine them into one neat little package?
But it's not just the schools themselves that are concerning. The report also exposes how right-wing politicians have gotten involved in creating and governing these schools. And surprise, surprise, some of them are benefiting financially. It's almost like they don't care about education and just want to make a quick buck. Who would have thought?
In fact, NPE found that right-wing charters are nearly twice as likely to be run by for-profit management companies than the entire charter sector. Because what's better than making money off of education? Making more money off of education!
So what does this mean for those who support charter schools but have progressive ideals? According to NPE President Diane Ravitch, "A movement you support is now taking a sharp turn right to destroy the values you cherish." In other words, you might want to reconsider your stance on charter schools.
But hey, at least we can all have a good laugh about it, right? Because nothing says "funny" like the privatization of education and the erosion of democracy. Ha ha ha... *cries internally*
A Sharp Turn Right: A New Breed of Charter Schools Delivers the Conservative Agenda - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/coming-soon-a-sharp-turn-right-a-new-breed-of-charter-schools-delivers-the-conservative-agenda/
RYAN WALTERS + MOMS FOR LIBERTY
MY MOMMIES CAN BEAT UP YOUR MOMMIES
As an Ed blogger, I've covered some pretty wild stories. But nothing could have prepared me for the absurdity of Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters' recent defense of the extremist group Moms for Liberty.
In case you haven't heard of them, Moms for Liberty is a group of mothers who believe that their children's education is under attack from radical leftists. They claim to be a grassroots organization, but it turns out that they're actually funded by the Koch brothers and Betsy DeVos. You know, just your typical concerned parents.
Anyway, at a recent press conference, Walters was asked about Moms for Liberty's controversial views on critical race theory. Instead of denouncing the group, he actually defended them. And not just defended them, but mocked their opponents.
"Listen, my mommies can beat up your mommies any day of the week," Walters said with a smirk. "These are strong, chubby women who are standing up for what they were told to believe in. And if that means pushing back against the Woke indoctrination of our children, then so be it."
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Was the state superintendent really endorsing a group that believes that racism doesn't exist and that teaching kids about it is somehow anti-American? And was he really resorting to playground taunts?
But it gets even better. When asked about the Koch brothers' involvement with Moms for Liberty, Walters brushed it off as a non-issue.
"Look, we live in a capitalist society," he said. "If the Koch brothers want to support a group of moms who are fighting for their kids' education, then who are we to judge? And let's be real, if George Soros was funding a group of leftist moms, nobody would bat an eye."
I couldn't help but laugh at the sheer absurdity of it all. It was like watching a Saturday Night Live sketch come to life.
But then I remembered that this was real life. And that the state superintendent was actually defending a group that is actively working to undermine our children's education.
So I did what any responsible journalist would do. I dug deeper.
And what I found was even more disturbing than I could have imagined.
It turns out that Moms for Liberty isn't just anti-critical race theory. They're also anti-vaccine, anti-mask, and anti-science in general. They believe that COVID-19 is a hoax and that the government is using it as an excuse to take away our freedoms.
In other words, they're conspiracy theorists.
And yet, somehow, they've managed to gain a following in Oklahoma. They've even started holding rallies and protests, where they chant slogans like "My body, my choice" and "Freedom over fear."
It's enough to make you want to bang your head against a wall.
But here's the thing. As ridiculous as Moms for Liberty may seem, they're not going away anytime soon. And neither is the political polarization that has allowed them to thrive.
So what can we do about it?
Well, for starters, we can stop pretending that this is just a harmless group of concerned parents. We can start calling out their dangerous beliefs and holding our elected officials accountable when they try to defend them.
And most importantly, we can start listening to each other again. Because at the end of the day, we're all just moms and dads who want what's best for our kids.
Even if some of us have a funny way of showing it.
Oklahoma State Superintendent defends 'parental rights' group named extremist by civil rights watchdog https://kfor.com/news/local/oklahoma-state-superintendent-defends-parental-rights-group-named-extremist-by-civil-rights-watchdog/
OKLA ED SEC RYAN WALTERS FANS OSDE DUMPSTER FIRE - TEACHER PAYOLA SCHEME
In a shocking turn of events, the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has been engulfed in flames after a former employee claimed he was wrongfully terminated for voicing concerns over teacher bonuses.
Matthew Colwell, who worked as the OSDE School Success Program Manager in the Division of Federal Programs, said he enjoyed his work until State Superintendent Ryan Walters took office and everything changed. Apparently, Walters and his Chief Policy Advisor, Matt Langston, didn't have educational backgrounds and needed Colwell to explain basic concepts about schools to them.
But that's not the worst part. Colwell said he felt they were not listening to the feedback from districts and experts about the potential impact of their initiative to offer up to $50,000 signing bonuses for new teachers who commit to work for five years in Oklahoma, with higher amounts for those who teach in rural or high poverty districts.
Colwell was concerned that the initiative would create inequities among districts, undermine local control, and divert federal funds from other programs that support students. And when he shared his views with Walters and Langston, they dismissed his arguments and accused him of being negative and unprofessional.
But Colwell wasn't going down without a fight. He exercised his First Amendment rights and blew the whistle on the misuse of federal funds. And what did he get for it? Fired. Without any explanation or due process.
Now, Colwell has filed a federal lawsuit against Walters and Langston for wrongful termination. He's seeking reinstatement, back pay, damages, and attorney fees. And he's not alone. Jennifer Wilkinson, who worked as the OSDE Director of Federal Programs, has also filed a lawsuit against Walters and Langston for wrongful termination.
It's official: the OSDE is a dumpster fire. And it's not just because of the lawsuits. The initiative to offer teacher bonuses has caused chaos among districts and teachers alike. Some districts are offering their own incentives to retain teachers, while others are struggling to compete.
And let's not forget about the teachers themselves. They're torn between wanting to take advantage of the bonuses and feeling guilty for leaving their current students behind. It's a mess.
But don't worry, folks. Superintendent Walters has defended his initiative as a way to attract and retain quality teachers in Oklahoma and to reverse the trend of teacher shortages in the state. Because nothing says "quality" like offering signing bonuses to new teachers while ignoring the concerns of current ones.
In conclusion, the OSDE is a dumpster fire that needs to be put out ASAP. And if Superintendent Walters and his team don't start listening to feedback and treating their employees with respect, they may find themselves out of a job too.
Former OSDE employee questions teacher bonus plan https://kfor.com/news/local/dumpster-fire-frmr-osde-employee-wrongfully-terminated-for-voicing-concerns-over-teacher-bonuses/
BREAKING NEWS: BIBLE JOINS THE LIST OF BANNED BOOKS IN US SCHOOLS
GOD PISSED
In a shocking turn of events, the Bible has become the latest victim of book bans sweeping across schools and libraries in the United States. That's right, the holy book that has been revered by millions of Christians around the world for centuries is now deemed inappropriate for young readers by some parents and activists who claim that it contains violence, sex, racism, homophobia, and misogyny. God must be shaking his head in disbelief.
According to PEN America, a free-speech organization, more than 1,600 books were banned in over 5,000 schools during the last school year. The bans were facilitated by the increasing number of educational gag orders introduced or passed in 36 states. The banned books include classic and contemporary novels, as well as graphic memoirs. But why is the Bible being targeted? And who is behind this movement to silence one of the most influential books in history?
One of the most vocal opponents of the Bible in schools is Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the former White House press secretary and current governor of Arkansas. Sanders recently announced that she would sign a bill that would ban public school libraries from keeping books on hand that focus on sexual activity, sexual identity, or gender identity. She also said that she would remove any books that "promote or normalize pornography" or "glorify violence" from her own children's shelves.
Sanders did not name any specific titles, but she implied that the Bible was among them. In a tweet, she wrote: "If you want to read about two men who lie with each other as they would with a woman (Leviticus 18:22), incest (Genesis 19:30-38), rape (Judges 19:22-30), slavery (Exodus 21:2-11), genocide (Joshua 6:21) or polygamy (1 Kings 11:3), go to your local library. Not mine."
Sanders' tweet sparked outrage among many librarians, educators, and authors who accused her of bigotry and ignorance. They pointed out that the Bible also contains messages of love, justice, forgiveness, and hope, and that it has inspired countless works of art, literature, and culture. They also argued that banning books is a violation of intellectual freedom and students' First Amendment rights.
"Sarah Huckabee Sanders is a disgrace to librarians everywhere," said Nancy Pearl, a renowned librarian and author. "She clearly has no idea what the Bible is about or what libraries are for. Libraries are places where people can access information and ideas from different perspectives and backgrounds. They are not places where politicians can impose their narrow-minded views on others."
Despite the criticism, Sanders has found some supporters among conservative groups and religious organizations that share her views on the Bible and other books. They claim that they are not trying to ban books per se but rather to protect children from harmful or inappropriate content.
One of these groups is Parents Defending Education (PDE), a nonprofit organization that aims to "fight indoctrination in the classroom" and "promote a return to academic excellence." PDE has launched a campaign called "Challenging Harmful Materials in Schools" (CHMS), which encourages parents to file complaints against books that they deem offensive or unsuitable for their children.
PDE's website lists several examples of books that they consider objectionable, including "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds, and "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie. The website also provides a template letter for parents to use when contacting school officials or board members about these books.
PDE's president, Nicole Neily, said that the Bible is one of the books that parents should challenge if they find it inappropriate for their children. She said that while she respects the religious beliefs of others, she does not think that public schools should promote any particular faith or doctrine.
"The Bible is a sacred text for many people, but it is also a controversial one," Neily said. "It contains stories and passages that may be disturbing or confusing for young readers. It also contradicts some of the values and principles that we want our children to learn, such as equality, diversity, and inclusion. We believe that parents have the right to decide what books their children read and that schools should respect their choices."
Whether motivated by religious convictions or political agendas, book bans have a significant impact on schools and libraries, as well as on students and authors. Book bans can limit the availability and diversity of books, stifle critical thinking and creativity, and undermine the educational mission of schools and libraries.
Book bans can also affect authors, especially those who write about marginalized or underrepresented groups. Book bans can devalue their work and voice, discourage them from writing about certain topics or perspectives, reduce their income and opportunities, and isolate them from their readers and fans.
Book bans are likely to continue as long as there are people who disagree with or fear the content of certain books. However, there are also people who oppose book bans and defend the right to read. They include librarians, educators, authors, students, parents, and activists who advocate for intellectual freedom and diversity of literature.
They use various strategies to resist book bans, such as raising awareness and educating the public about the issue, organizing protests and campaigns to support banned books and authors, challenging book bans in court or through appeals, celebrating banned books through events and programs, and creating alternative spaces and platforms for accessing and sharing books.
The future of book bans depends on the outcome of this ongoing struggle between censorship and freedom, between ignorance and enlightenment, between fear and curiosity. As the poet John Milton wrote in his 1644 essay "Areopagitica," which defended the freedom of the press: "Give me the liberty to know, to utter, and to argue freely according to conscience, above all liberties." Let's hope we can all learn from his words before it's too late.
Book bans are sweeping US schools. A surprising new victim? The Bible | Arwa Mahdawi | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jun/07/book-bans-are-sweeping-us-schools-a-surprising-new-victim-the-bible
Librarians Read Sarah Huckabee Sanders For Filth Over Bigoted Book Ban https://news.yahoo.com/librarians-read-sarah-huckabee-sanders-160135225.html
THE FAT LADY SINGS
IS ANYONE LISTENING
Hold on to your hats, folks, because the 2024 presidential race just got a whole lot more interesting. That's right, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has announced his bid for the White House, and he's not holding back.
In a town hall in New Hampshire, Christie declared his candidacy, surrounded by his supporters and a new super PAC called "Tell It Like It Is." And boy, does he plan to tell it like it is.
Christie is no stranger to presidential campaigns, having run in 2016 and briefly being a close ally of former President Donald Trump. But now, he's one of Trump's most outspoken critics and rivals in the Republican primary field.
And he's not just going after Trump. Christie has a whole list of charges against other Republican presidential hopefuls, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
But let's be real, the real target here is Trump. Christie believes he's best-positioned to take on the former president in the primary while also appealing to independents in a potential general election showdown with President Joe Biden.
And he's not afraid to call out Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, his refusal to accept his 2020 election loss to Biden, his role in inciting the January 6 Capitol riot and his cozy relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
But wait, there's more! Christie has also taken aim at DeSantis, who is widely seen as Trump's heir apparent and his biggest threat in the primary. He's mocked DeSantis for his handling of the pandemic in Florida, his lack of experience and his reluctance to challenge Trump.
"Ron DeSantis' campaign is spiraling," Christie said in a tweet on Monday. "He has no vision for America other than being Donald Trump's puppet. He has failed Florida on Covid-19, education and the economy. He is not ready to be president."
Ouch. But wait, there's even more! Christie's blunt style and willingness to confront Trump and other GOP hopefuls has earned him a lot of enemies within the party. According to a recent NBC News poll, only 18% of Republicans have a favorable view of him, while 50% have an unfavorable view.
But hey, that's not stopping Christie. He's confident that he can win over Republican voters with his record as a governor and his fearlessness in taking on Trump.
"You better have somebody on that stage who can do to him what I did to Marco [Rubio], because that's the only thing that's gonna defeat Donald Trump," Christie said at a town hall in March. "And that means you have to be fearless, because he will come back, and right at you."
So get ready for a wild ride, folks. The 2024 presidential race just got a lot more interesting with Chris Christie throwing his hat into the ring. Will anyone be listening? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure, it's going to be one heck of a show.
Chris Christie attacks Donald Trump as he launches 2024 presidential bid... https://youtu.be/jm-D-JHWkd4 via @YouTube
Christie takes aim at 'self-serving' Trump as he launches White House bid | Reuters https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-backer-turned-critic-chris-christie-make-white-house-run-official-2023-06-06/
Trump Responds to Chris Christie Attacks With … Fat Jokes https://news.yahoo.com/trump-responds-chris-christie-attacks-150436146.html
DOLLY PARTON DOING MOTHER GOOSE'S WORK
IMAGINATION LIBRARY MILLIONS OF BOOKS FOR KIDS
Move over Mother Goose, there's a new book lady in town and her name is Dolly Parton. That's right, the country music legend is not only known for her angelic voice and epic wig collection, but also for her philanthropy work with the Imagination Library.
For those of you who don't know, the Imagination Library is a program that provides free books to children from birth to age five. And let me tell you, Dolly is not playing around when it comes to getting books in the hands of these kiddos.
In California alone, millions of children have benefited from Dolly's generosity. That's right, millions. And let's be real, with the cost of living in California, parents need all the help they can get. Thanks to Dolly, kids are able to expand their imaginations and learn valuable lessons through the power of literature.
But let's not forget about the real hero here, Dolly Parton herself. This woman has not only blessed us with iconic songs like "Jolene" and "9 to 5", but she's also making sure the next generation is well-read and educated. Can we get a round of applause for this queen?
And don't think for a second that Dolly is just throwing any old book at these kids. Oh no, she hand selects each and every book that goes out through the Imagination Library. That's right, Dolly Parton is basically the Oprah of children's literature.
So next time you see a child with their nose buried in a book, thank Dolly Parton for her tireless efforts to promote literacy. And if you happen to come across a child who doesn't have access to books, direct them to the Imagination Library website where they can sign up for free.
In conclusion, Dolly Parton is a national treasure and we should all strive to be more like her. She's a woman who knows how to use her fame and fortune for good and we could all learn a thing or two from her. So go ahead and blast "Islands in the Stream" while you sign up for the Imagination Library, because there's no such thing as too much Dolly in our lives.
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library | USA, UK, IE, CA, AU https://imaginationlibrary.com/
Dolly Parton, country music legend, is helping millions of children across California | CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/06/entertainment/dolly-parton-book-program/index.html?utm_term=link&utm_source=twCNN&utm_medium=social&utm_content=2023-06-07T03%3A30%3A09
