This video by PBS News Hour discusses how the government is becoming increasingly more involved with the restriction of certain books. Parents in many school districts throughout the country are concerned about the content of certain books, and the fact that they are being made available for children in grades K-12 to read. The books that are being banned are mostly ones that are involved with racial and gender issues. This video (in my opinion) demonstrates the concept of liberty by showing how two groups of people are concerned about the level of government involvement, and how they try to change it. Some parents are exercising their 1st amendment right to protest/petition, in hopes of sparking a change in the reading materials that are accessible to their children. However, this is more of a protest than we’ve seen in the past. Other parents (and teachers) are arguing that children have the right to access these books, as some tell very important or eye-opening stories.
Discussion Questions:
- Discussion prompt- Discuss the main message/goal of this video with a partner.
- What is one way you have observed (or been involved in) people advocating for changes to what your school administration can regulate? (dress codes, start times, lunch, etc.) What was the outcome and how did it affect you?
- What is one way you have observed (or been involved in) people advocating for changes to what the government can regulate? What was the outcome and how did it affect you?
- Do you think that there is a way that this problem/conflict could be solved without the government becoming involved?
- Do you think the government should have any say in which books you, as a student, should be allowed to access? Why or why not?
Personally, I like this assignment. It helps me as an education major because it gives me an opportunity to practice gathering materials for instruction, as well as coming up with engaging discussion questions. It also helps me understand the concepts of American political culture. I would say yes, you should continue to use this assignment in the future.