I write about queer people like me because queer people like me exist. By telling my story, I want others to know they are not alone.

This must be how many authors writing about LGBTQ+ themes felt.

However, thousands of books about queer experiences have been banned in the past few years. Since 2021, 41% of banned books in the U.S. explicitly address LGBTQ+ themes or have prominent characters who are LGBTQ+, according to PEN America. Many others often include books that explore issues of race/racism, sexuality, and gender.

Banned books mean silenced voices. These books were a safe haven when I was young — they were more precious to me than my favorite stuffed animals. They made me feel seen, and part of a community.

Those who will grow up without access to this haven will feel alone, confused, and may internalize prejudice. It will take them years — even decades — to fully understand their identity, all because they couldn’t learn about themselves and others like them. I am both frustrated and disappointed at this society that suppresses any love, feeling, and expression they are unfamiliar with. Hate for the unfamiliar is no excuse.

This is why education is necessary — it spreads awareness. I’d argue that novels are one of the most powerful forms of education. With novels, we can live vicariously, feel and see the world through others’ eyes, and build a deep sense of empathy with the narrator and their experiences. LGBTQ+ books not only help people like myself feel seen — they also teach others about our reality.

Many books touch on both internal and external homophobia, showing us the reality of living in a society with institutionalized homophobia. From All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson to Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, queer books everywhere are being challenged and banned. Maybe these books should be read by the decision makers. Shouldn’t we know the entirety of the stories before we choose to remove them?

Not only are we taking away people’s safe havens, but we are also taking away history. As textbooks with LGBTQ+ history are banned across the U.S., the full picture is being erased — left with only parts the states want us to see. If they don’t allow us to read books that expose these issues, our children won’t notice these issues. They will grow up in a society with structural heteronormativity and racism, unaware of dangerous beliefs. We will overlook our shared history and culture. Our country takes pride in our diversity, but we are not acknowledging nor respecting it because we do not learn about it.

America, bring our banned books back. Your First Amendment claims you are the land of the free, but actions speak louder than words. Let all voices be heard and help America raise welcoming and fully informed people.

Talking about these topics is spreading awareness. By reading these personal stories, we understand. We understand the various cultures, stories, and backgrounds people come from. We understand the various ways people can love and express themselves. 

If anything, remember this: by reading books about our community, we become a part of it. We are giving a new meaning to “united.”

Let’s raise our voices together. Bring banned books back.