Valley Religious Leaders Unite in Powerful Letter Against Book Censorship

Local Religious Leaders Unite Against Proposed Book Ban

A diverse group of religious leaders from various faiths in the Rio Grande Valley has come together to oppose a book ban proposed in local school districts. Known as the McAllen Faith Leaders Network, this coalition has been meeting monthly to discuss faith-related issues and community matters.

Recently, the group has focused on the efforts of a pastors' group called Latino Faith, affiliated with the Christian nationalist organization Remnant Alliance, which is pushing for the removal of around 600 books from school libraries.

In response, the McAllen Faith Leaders Network penned an open letter signed by eight leaders, emphasizing their nonpartisan stance and commitment to upholding the values of their faiths.

Despite Governor Greg Abbott signing House Bill 900 into law, requiring book vendors to rate materials for school libraries, Pastor Luis Cabrera of Latino Faith has urged school boards in various cities to eliminate books his group deems inappropriate due to explicit content.

The religious leaders assert their support for religious freedom, asserting that decisions regarding educational materials should not be influenced by external religious groups. They trust educators and librarians to make appropriate choices for students without outside interference.

What do you think?

• Should religious groups have a say in what students can access in school libraries?
• Do you believe in the separation of church and state in educational settings?
• Should educators have the final say in selecting books for school libraries?