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Libraries are America’s most democratic institutions.
They provide unlimited access to lifelong learning regardless of one’s race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status. Libraries help create a more literate society.
This week, I’m proud to celebrate National Library Week. National Library Week was established in 1954 with the hope of engaging more people in the rich resources of libraries.
These days, libraries are not only spaces for avid readers but are also vital community centers. Their services range from assisting low-income communities with tax assistance to providing a cool place to lounge on hot summer days. And yet, in 2021 alone, the American Library Association tracked 729 challenges facing libraries, ranging from banning books to adding undue burdens to the acquisition of school library materials.
In fact, the Virginia GOP attempted to do just that during this last legislative session. SB275 attacked our school librarians’ efforts to provide a wide range of age-appropriate materials for diverse young readers. This bill was at the forefront of what we see happening nation-wide; it actually equated school librarians with sexual predators and pedophiles, and sought to ban books by authors from marginalized communities.
Enough is enough.
I am proud to have put an end to such harmful legislation. Without a Democratic-held Senate, we would have seen attacks on libraries and education succeed in Virginia in the same way they are succeeding in Florida and Texas.
Education is meant to develop students’ abilities to think critically and to be challenged by ideas and experiences. I will always fight to make Virginia more inclusive for everyone and to ensure we’re teaching our students how to think critically.
Happy National Library Week and don’t forget to thank a librarian today.
Sen. Ghazala Hashmi
P.S. If you’d like to help me continue this fight, please consider making a donation. [[link removed]]
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