CA GOV GAVIN NEWSOM BANS BOOK BANNING MAGA PEOPLE LOOSE THEIR SH*T
In a move that has left book-banning enthusiasts shaking in their boots, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that puts an end to their archaic practices. The bill, which imposes heavy fines on school districts that attempt to ban books featuring historically marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ people, is a direct response to recent attempts by conservative areas in California to censor library and classroom materials promoting racial or sexual diversity.
Newsom, who is known for his progressive policies, stated that this legislation provides more than just a rhetorical pushback against the cultural purge and banning binge currently occurring throughout America. "We're not going to stand idly by while people try to erase the rich and diverse history of our state," he said in a press conference. "This bill is a message to those who want to silence marginalized voices: we won't let you."
The new law, which took effect immediately, prohibits school boards in California from rejecting textbooks based on their inclusion of content related to different racial backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations. It also makes it illegal for school boards to ban library books or instructional materials that offer "inclusive and diverse perspectives in compliance with state law."
The bill was prompted by the rejection of a social studies curriculum by a Southern California school board that included material about Harvey Milk, a San Francisco politician and gay rights campaigner. "It's ridiculous that in 2021 we still have to fight for basic representation," said Newsom. "Harvey Milk was a trailblazer who fought for equality and justice. To ban him from the classroom is not only offensive, it's downright silly."
The law also provides the Superintendent of Public Instruction with the authority to buy textbooks for students in a school district, recoup costs, and assess a financial penalty if a school board willfully chooses not to provide sufficient standards-aligned instructional materials for students. This means that schools will no longer be able to use budget cuts as an excuse for banning books.
Conservatives have been quick to criticize the bill, with some calling it an attack on free speech. "This is just another example of the liberal agenda trying to indoctrinate our children," said one commentator. "What's next? Banning the Bible?" But Newsom remains unfazed by the criticism. "We're not banning anything," he said. "We're just making sure that our kids have access to a diverse range of perspectives. If conservatives want to ban books, that's their prerogative. But they're not going to do it in California."
The bill has been hailed as a victory for marginalized communities, who have long been fighting for representation in schools. "It's about time," said one LGBTQ+ activist. "Our stories are just as important as anyone else's. We deserve to be seen and heard." Others have praised the bill for its potential to promote empathy and understanding among students. "When kids read about people who are different from them, they learn to be more accepting," said one educator. "That's what education is all about."
In any case, it's clear that book-banning enthusiasts are going to have to find a new hobby. Perhaps they can take up knitting or bird-watching instead? Whatever they choose, they'll have to do it without the satisfaction of knowing they're silencing marginalized voices. And that's something we can all celebrate.
California Bans Book Bans and Textbook Censorship in Schools https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/09/25/california-bans-book-bans-and-textbook-censorship-in-schools/
California to Fine Schools That Ban Books on LGBTQ+ or Racial Issues https://www.thedailybeast.com/california-gov-gavin-newsom-signs-bill-to-fine-schools-that-ban-books
California governor signs law barring schoolbook bans based on racial, gender teachings https://news.yahoo.com/california-governor-signs-law-barring-022641454.html
