Book

Public Opinion Divided: Iowa Book Ban Law Receives Mixed Reactions as Over a Thousand Books are Removed

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Des Moines, Iowa – A new poll conducted by the Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll reveals that half of Iowans believe the state’s controversial book ban law, which has led to the removal of over a thousand books from public schools, goes too far. Meanwhile, a third of respondents view the law and subsequent removals as “about right.” Only 13% of those surveyed felt that the law did not go far enough, while 3% were undecided. The book ban law, known as Senate File 496, was signed by Governor Kim Reynolds in May 2023. This … Read more

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost Unveils Enhanced “Yellow Book” with New Chapter on Law Enforcement Records

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COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has released the updated 2024 edition of the Sunshine Laws Manual, also known as the “Yellow Book.” This manual serves as a resource for Ohioans to better understand their rights and assists public officials in fulfilling their responsibilities under Ohio’s Public Records and Open Meetings laws. The manual has been revised to ensure its accuracy and relevance in light of the evolving legal landscape. Yost emphasizes the importance of transparency in government, stating that without it, citizens cannot fully participate in their democracy or hold their leaders … Read more

Controversial Oklahoma Law Creates Fear Among Teachers, Hinders Teaching of Award-Winning Book ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’

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Pawhuska, Oklahoma – Teachers in Oklahoma are hesitant to teach a book that the film “Killers of the Flower Moon” is based on, citing fears of violating new state laws and potential repercussions. The movie, which has been nominated for 10 Oscars, tells the true story of the systematic murders of wealthy members of the Osage tribe in Oklahoma during the 1920s by white settlers. The Native Americans had become wealthy after oil was discovered on their land. Despite its popularity, high school English teacher Debra Thoreson expresses concerns about teaching the book due to … Read more

Iowa Teacher Fights Back Against Controversial Book Ban Law, Seeks Guidance for Inclusive Education

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Des Moines, Iowa – A special education teacher in Des Moines Public Schools has expressed concerns over the removal of books from his classroom due to a new state education law. Dan Gutmann, along with several other plaintiffs, has filed a lawsuit against the state over the law, which restricts instruction and curriculum relating to gender identity and sexual orientation for students up to sixth grade. The law also bans books that depict sex acts. While a federal judge has temporarily blocked the enforcement of major portions of the law, Gutmann and other educators still … Read more