Hello all!
Yesterday I attended the hearing and spoke out against the ban along with several others. Although we won't find out the board's decision until December, I want to thank them for their patience and professionalism and for being such gracious hosts.
The president of the board, Mary Edens, confirmed that the request was filed for removal, a fact which the group who filed initially denied, then claimed they weren't presented with any other options. They eagerly provided the board with alternative solutions, such as rigging the book with an alarm or locking it up in a box accessible only by persons 16+ with a valid ID.
Would a ban by any other name smell as sweet?
Let's do something. Let's go to our local libraries and borrow one or more of the "Heartstopper" series(if your library doesn't have a copy, politely see if you can request one). Especially those of you in and around Bellaire, Michigan. And when you do, show the librarians some love. Tell them how much you appreciate them. Let them know how much diverse books matter to you. Tell them they're doing an amazing job. If you don't feel comfortable telling them in person, send an email.
I'm leaving the petition up until December so I can send a final update.
Thank you so much, every one of you, for your love and support.