NEWARK, Md. -- An appeal to censor reading materials within Worcester County schools has sparked a heated debate among parents and educators. A significant number of individuals who voiced their concerns at the latest Board of Education meeting oppose the presence of books containing explicit sexual content in school libraries.
The catalyst for this discourse emerged when Pat Barbely addressed the Board during their session in Newark last month. In her statement, Barbely expressed her unease about sexually explicit books, citing examples such as "All Boys Aren't Blue," a narrative that unfolds the story of a young male child who fell victim to an older male family member.
"I and many other parents have requested that the board remove the sexually explicit books in our school libraries," said Barbely.
Tom Simon, a parent with children in the Worcester County Public School system, reacted strongly to Barbely's appeal.
"It was horrifying, it was disgusting, it was distasteful," Simon expressed. "I went there to speak about funding, to the board meeting, and I rewrote my comments as I was sitting there because I was appalled by all the things these people were saying."
Barbely also questioned the positive impact of books like "All Boys Aren't Blue."
"I fail to see where reading these books offers hope, help, or resources or solutions to a troubled student in this situation," said Barbely.
However, amidst the call for censorship, voices advocating for the importance of such literature in fostering a safe and inclusive environment within schools have emerged.
Treston Melvin, a student at Pocomoke High School, shared a powerful testimony about the profound impact "All Boys Aren't Blue" had on him after a traumatic experience.
"I am a student and I am a human... 'All Boys Aren't Blue,' that book, to see someone who was like me, that saved my life," said Melvin.
Melvin's words resonated strongly with Simon, prompting him to initiate a group named "Worcester United," dedicated to advocating for inclusive education.
"We decided to get together and start Worcester United to take a stand for Treston and for all students that may not fit into these people's perfect little box of what they think humans should be," said Simon.
The controversy surrounding censorship in Worcester County has prompted the Board of Education to address the concerns raised. The Board discussed several resolutions in response to the complaints about books with sexual content, and this ongoing discussion is expected to be revisited later this month.