Bill > SRes372

This Resolution expresses deep concern over the increasing prevalence of book bans and threats to freedom of expression across the United States. It highlights that the majority of voters oppose book bans and support the teaching of diverse historical and social topics, referencing Supreme Court decisions like *Tinker v. Des Moines* and *Board of Education, Island Trees Union Free School District No. 26 v. Pico* which affirm students' rights to free speech and prohibit schools from removing books for partisan reasons. The resolution also points to the First Amendment's protection of free speech and the right to read, as well as Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It cites data from PEN America indicating a significant rise in book bans, with many enacted without following established guidelines from organizations like the American Library Association. The resolution emphasizes that the free exchange of ideas is vital for democracy and that book bans, often targeting books by and about marginalized communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and discussions of race and racism, are harmful to students, educators, librarians, authors, and the public's access to information. It calls on local governments and school districts to adhere to best practices when handling book challenges and to safeguard students' rights to learn and educators' abilities to teach by ensuring access to a wide range of books reflecting diverse viewpoints.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-resolution/372/all-info