Friend, 

In recent years, book bans have erupted across our country due to the divisive rhetoric spouted by conservative leaders in politics and the media.

People like Bill O’Reilly–the popular cable news host for Fox who was ousted over sexual harassment claims–is one of those leaders.

When Florida began banning books, O’Reilly was publicly supportive, citing abuse by “far-left progressive people trying to impose an agenda on children, there's no doubt about it." But last week, when two of his books were put under review for potential removal, he was outraged. It seems Bill is okay with censoring – as long as it's not his opinion being censored.

But let’s focus on the facts. The history of book bans in this country is tightly tied to our eras of censorship. During slavery and the Civil War, texts promoting abolitionist ideals were banned. During McCarthyism, texts perceived to encourage socialism were banned. And on and on. 

Today, my question to you is: What is more dangerous, a world where ideas and stories are freely and openly shared or a world where men like Bill O’Reilly censor the ideas and stories that don’t support their own opinions?

Let’s make sure we elect leaders this year who will celebrate diverse, factual, and important ideas and stories.

Nydia