(stock image via Depositphotos)A public library on Long Island has voted to remove “all Pride displays” as well as all books related to LGBTQ Pride from its children’s sections.
Long Island library votes to remove ‘all Pride displays’ as well as Pride-related books from children’s section
The 4-2 vote was met with fierce backlash and call for action by advocates.https://t.co/8XBovnlAjG
— New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) June 23, 2022
From the New York Daily News:
The Smithtown Library Board of Trustees voted 4-2 Tuesday to ban any and all displays related to LGBTQ Pride from kids’ areas at Smithtown Library buildings, a move that was met with fierce backlash and call for action by advocates.
Library officials didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on the ban, but library director Robert Lusak told Newsday that at least 29 books are affected by the ban. They include a history of the AIDS Memorial Quilt and picture books like “Pink is for Boys” and “Pride Puppy.”
Governor Kathy Hochul tweeted that “our public spaces should be accepting our young people — not rejecting them,” reminding all LGBTQ New Yorkers that the state supports and welcomes them.
For many LGBTQ+ kids, libraries are one of the few spaces where they can be welcomed and affirmed for who they are.
Our public spaces should be accepting our young people — not rejecting them.
To LGBTQ+ New Yorkers: We stand with you, we support you, & you are welcome here. https://t.co/x6w1q8o3El
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 22, 2022
While we condemn the actions taken by the Smithtown Public Library’s Board of Trustees, we remain in full support of the library’s staff & Director who were required to remove the materials encompassed in the vote & work tirelessly to ensure their entire community feels welcome.
— New York Library Association (@NYLA_1890) June 23, 2022