Friend,

On Americans United’s blog last week, we recognized Banned Books Week by inviting staff members to share their experiences with books that have made an impact on their lives. “Slaughterhouse-Five.” “Rubyfruit Jungle.” “The Color Purple.” “The Miseducation of Cameron Post.” “Elmer Gantry.” “The Hate U Give.”

Now we’d like to hear from you: What frequently challenged story broadened your horizons? What book did extremists try to ban in your public school or library? What “inappropriate” tale did you read on the sly as a child?

Take our quick survey to let us know what banned books you’ve read and enjoyed.

The re-energized push in recent months to ban books in public schools, libraries and even bookstores is just one prong of the crusade by religious extremists and their political allies to force everyone to live by their beliefs and to insert Christian nationalism into our public schools.

Americans United was proud to partner with the American Library Association this year as part of the Unite Against Book Bans campaign to fight these attempts at censorship and to ensure young people have access to books that reflect their own experiences and help them understand complex issues.

We’ve learned new things about our colleagues as they’ve shared what books have influenced their lives. Join the conversation by letting us know what frequently banned books are important to you and your family.

United, we are stronger than the extremists who want to dictate what books children are allowed to read. Young people should have equal access to ideas and the freedom to explore them without censorship.

Thank you for being part of our movement to ensure freedom without favor and equality without exception for everyone.

Rob Boston

AU Senior Adviser and Editor of Church & State magazine