How Book Bans Signal a Global Rise of Fascism

Have you noticed your country regressing in its laws, policies, and civility? Did you once believe your nation was a beacon of hope and progress, only to now feel anger, humiliation, or despondence at its current state? If you are a citizen of the US, these sentiments might resonate deeply. However, the US is not alone; many countries are experiencing similar turmoil. As the US teeters on the brink of a democratic crisis, we must ask: what is truly at stake? Is the country really moving toward fascism, and if so, can it recover?

Defining Fascism and Recognizing the Signs

Fascism is characterized by authoritarianism, extreme nationalism, and suppression of dissent. A key symptom is the restriction of ideas. When education access is limited, books are banned, and facts are redefined as "alternative," the state begins to control thoughts, ideals, and growth. In creating a nationalist identity entwined with religious dogma, the state asserts that dissent is a threat to divine order, justifying the violent suppression of rights.

Book Bans as a Step Toward Fascism

One small yet significant step toward fascism is banning books that challenge certain beliefs or identities. Instead of succumbing to such legislative misuse, we must use laws to hold accountable those who violate norms, impede freedoms, and create chaos. Understanding this, Colorado has taken a bold step to counteract the rise of book bans.

Colorado's Stance Against Book Bans

Colorado has officially banned book bans in public libraries with Senate Bill 216, signed into law by Governor Jared Polis. This bill, introduced by Senator Lisa Cutter, Dafna Michaelson Jenet, Eliza Hamrick, and Junie Joseph, emphasizes the professional expertise in public library collections and mandates written policies for material acquisition, retention, and reconsideration.

Books cannot be removed without following the established policies, ensuring a transparent and consistent process. The bill also requires public disclosure of decisions regarding book challenges, creating a record of challenged, banned, restricted, and retained books. This transparency helps in understanding the scope of the book ban crisis.

Protecting Library Workers and Upholding Professional Standards

Senate Bill 216 protects library workers from retaliation for not removing or relocating books that have not undergone the proper review process. It reinforces the idea that library professionals should not be subject to political whims or public demands. Although the bill's anti-discrimination provisions were removed, likely due to existing state laws, its protection of library operations is a significant victory.

The National Context and Continuing Challenges

Despite the progress, Colorado is not immune to book challenges and bans. Incidents have occurred in communities across the state, fueled by far-right groups. High Plains Library District faced a notable controversy, resulting in a librarian winning a settlement after being fired for exposing discriminatory policies. The state remains vigilant, with eight book challenges recorded between January and August 2023.

Conclusion: The Broader Implications

While Colorado's bill is a crucial step, it is part of a larger movement among states like Illinois, California, Maryland, and Minnesota, which are also enacting measures to protect libraries and uphold democratic engagement. These efforts are essential in preserving libraries as spaces for civic engagement and democracy. The trend which forecloses this debate threatens democracy, intellectual freedom and social equity. It takes us away from the very ideals upon which our country was created.

For more detailed information on Colorado's approach, click here.