Book Ban Advocate Demands Removal of Titles from Tennessee School Library
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WZTV) — Controversy erupted at a recent meeting of the Murfreesboro School Board when advocate John Amanchukwu took the floor demanding the removal of a book from school library shelves.
Amanchukwu, who garnered attention for similar efforts in other states, targeted the book “It Feels Good to Be Yourself,” asserting it should be banned due to its exploration of gender identity.
“Some people are boys, some people are girls, some people both, neither are somewhere in between,” Amanchukwu recited from the book during the meeting. “This book is for kids ages 4 through 8, and that is a lie. It’s only male or female, according to Genesis 1:27.”
The pastor further stated that the book was available at the Bradley Academy library in Murfreesboro, drawing impassioned applause from some audience members while sparking contention among others.
Amanchukwu’s stance aligned with a broader movement gaining traction in some corners of the country, aimed at removing materials from schools and libraries that some deem inappropriate or potentially harmful to children.
His appearance came amidst a nationwide debate surrounding the inclusion of LGBTQ+ inclusive content in educational materials. Advocates for such inclusion argue that representation is crucial for fostering inclusivity and understanding among students, while opponents, like Amanchukwu, maintain that such materials promote ideologies they believe are contrary to their values.
The Murfreesboro School Board has a policy allowing public comment but requires topics to be agenda-related. Amanchukwu’s comments focused on a subject not listed on the agenda, leading to a recess being called when he refused to cease his remarks.
### Opposition to “It Feels Good To Be Yourself”
“We want to ban books that seek to pervert the hearts and minds of children,” Amanchukwu declared during his remarks as applause resonated throughout the meeting room.
Amanchukwu, who has earned the label “Book Ban Pastor” on various social media platforms, has been vocal in his opposition to books addressing gender identity and other LGBTQ+ themes. He has previously led similar campaigns in Maryland, Florida, and his home state of North Carolina. His activism highlights the growing tension surrounding the role of schools in shaping children’s understanding of complex social issues.
The book “It Feels Good To Be Yourself” has faced criticism from individuals who believe it introduces concepts of gender identity and expression that are beyond the developmental comprehension of young children.
These critics argue that such exposure can create confusion and potentially undermine traditional values. Conversely, proponents of the book maintain that it celebrates diversity and offers a positive message of self-acceptance. They believe that representation of diverse experiences is essential for fostering empathy and understanding among all children.
The situation in Murfreesboro underscores the challenges faced by educators and policymakers as they navigate the often-contentious landscape of curriculum development and library materials. Balancing the right to access information with concerns about age-appropriateness and potentially harmful content remains a complex and ongoing debate.
