Monday, September 23 marks the start of National Banned Book Week, an annual week-long event bringing together librarians, educators, and many others to support the freedom to research and express ideas. (WCIV)

(WPDE) — A subcommittee of the South Carolina State Board of Education will hold a meeting Thursday to review the first round of state-sponsored book bans.

Of the 11 titles challenged, an unknown reviewer recommended that eight titles be banned and three be retained.

Based on the review forms provided, decisions were made using the Moms for Liberty form. preferred rating systema site that would take “objectionable” passages out of context in order to facilitate bans.

Josh Malkin, advocacy director for the ACLU of South Carolina, provided the following statement regarding the proposed book bans and regulations.

“The state Department of Education is acting with a scandalous lack of transparency as it works to remove books from every classroom and library in South Carolina. We will continue to stand with our incredible educators, parents and students who do not find it acceptable for one person to impose their worldview on an entire state. Attacking the right of access to information will lead to a multitude of unforeseen and unfortunately intended consequences. We remain committed to defending the freedom to read.

Thursday’s meeting is the first of what are expected to be many hearings on the book ban permitted by Regulation 43-170, which was promoted by Superintendent Ellen Weaver over the objections of teachers, librarians and students. the whole state.

The settlement allows book-banning organizations to challenge titles at grades K-12 if the books contain “sexual conduct.”

Of the 11 contested titles, Crank by Ellen Hopkins is one of those on the discussion list.

Hopkins released a written statement regarding the novel and its contents.

Statement from Ellen Hopkins on the banning of books.