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Understanding Book Banning in Canada

May 5, 2025

Lecture on Book Banning in Canada

Introduction

  • Book banning in Canada is described as a quiet and systemic issue.
  • The speaker discusses personal experiences with censorship and book banning.
  • The story begins in 2022 with a principal's desire to remove "old books" deemed too Eurocentric, male, or heteronormative.

Personal Reflection

  • The speaker reflects on the value of books and the personal history with reading and teaching literature.
  • Questions are raised about the worth of older books and the nostalgia associated with them.

Rise of Censorship

  • Book censorship is increasing, with incidents in schools and public libraries.
  • New censorship involves state actors and special interest groups.
  • Books are required to demonstrate moral value for their existence.

Statistics on Book Banning

  • PEN America identified 10,000 instances of book removals in 2023 across the US.
  • Large percentage of banned books involve race, racism, or LGBTQ+ characters.

Historical Context of Book Banning

  • Book banning is an age-old practice with state involvement historically.
  • In Canada, censorship has roots in the 1867 Customs Act.

Contemporary Book Banning

  • Modern book banning targets libraries, especially in schools.
  • Libraries face challenges due to funding and lack of full-time librarians.

Key Organizations and Movements

  • Anti-government groups like Moms for Liberty target libraries.
  • Book banning often framed as protecting children from harmful ideas.

Educational and Societal Implications

  • The rise of digital media competes with traditional book reading.
  • Reports show a decline in book reading habits among younger generations.

Paradox of Book Bans

  • Book bans can inadvertently increase interest and sales of banned books.
  • Despite digital accessibility, censorship still has significant impacts.

Reasons Behind Contemporary Censorship

  • Motivated by political, social, and cultural factors.
  • Book banning serves as a symbolic act rather than an effective measure.

Implications for Future Generations

  • Book banning impacts narratives that shape future societal views.
  • It challenges democratic ideals and the freedom of expression.

Conclusion

  • Contemporary book banning is a complex issue involving various stakeholders and motivations.
  • The lecture emphasizes the importance of defending the cultural and educational value of books.

Excerpt from Ira Wells' book on the topic with permission from Biblioasis.