Learning, Literature "Join the Lt. Governor to discuss the importance of free speech, inclusion, democracy, and open dialogue. "
Vermont author Tanya Lee Stone reads from her banned book during a banned book reading and discussion held by Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman, far left, at Bridgeside Books in Waterbury, Vt., Aug. 13, 2023. AP Photo/Lisa Rathke
One of the many reasons that I love living in Massachusetts is that our town is just 20 minutes from Vermont. So I felt some true home town pride when I read that this summer and fallLt. Governor David Zuckerman is traveling the state hosting a series of book readings from banned books at local bookstores and libraries.
From the Lt. Governor's website, an official Vermont Government website: "Around the country, we have seen the proliferation of book challenges and bans by school districts and local governments. These bans often target books that feature LGBTQ+ characters; talk about gender and sexuality; highlight racial disparities; or talk about difficult issues such as substance abuse and cases of police violence. Students, teachers, and curious minds should be able to access materials that spark critical thinking, cover difficult topics, and appeal to diverse interests without fear of government interference."
