In 2020, the Central York School District in York Pennsylvania implemented a book ban against 300+ books and resources. These books were written for and about characters of color and diversity. Student activists in the Panther Anti Racist Union, PARU, took a stand and protested against the ban and the banning of resources across the country. Thankfully, that ban was reversed after weeks of protesting at the high school and in the community. 

However, sadly, we are back in the same position we were in 2 years ago: facing a book ban. This time against the book PUSH by Sapphire. Instead of going public, the book was banned in "secret". But of course, nothing as serious as a book ban can go without notice. Eventually, PARU was made aware of the book ban and jumped into creating this petition. Along with that, the group is planning red-outs in protest of the book being banned and also against other book bans across the country. This is not the only incident of materials being stripped from classrooms and resources being taken away. In actuality, there were a total of three books being banned in the Central York School District. We have confirmed that Push has been removed, and another title that has yet to be released. The third book that was up for removal was “Sold” by Patricia McCormick. That book was apparently reviewed and returned to the library. 

Removing books leads to the silencing of audiences. It is important for students to see themselves represented in the classrooms. Diversity is not just a box to check off on a piece of paper. No, it is a commitment. A commitment to inclusion, love, peace, and justice for all human beings regardless of differences. We need to support each other, love each other, and amplify the voices of the fighters and warriors who have been silenced for too long. Sign our petition to fight against book bans all across the nation. Our education and future are on the line but we are ready to fight for it.