Speaking Out Against Censorship & Speaking Up for Myself

OCTOBER 24TH UPDATE

Read Document: Motion for New Trial
 

Since July 19th, I have been in a battle to stand up to bullies who are attacking me and our public library’s efforts to ensure that all students are safe, respected, and free to learn. As a mother, and a lifelong resident of our community, I spoke at a local public library board meeting about the importance of books and materials that reflect the reality of our children's’ world, and that engage them in learning. In response, harassers are using harmful and divisive language to hurt my reputation, threaten me and my family, and frighten me into silence.

For our students, my own child, and my community, I refuse to cower to bullies who are using children and scare tactics to score political points. That’s why I filed a defamation lawsuit, and why, despite the disappointment of an early ruling, I am going to keep pushing. I am concerned about the precedent this ruling sets for online bullies to freely and openly attack and defame hard-working educators and librarians as they use us as political pawns. When did it become acceptable to behave this way online and what is it teaching our children?

For those who do not know, last month a judge ruled it was okay for two men to accuse me of falsehoods and issue dangerous personal attacks to be spread freely on social media. I am deeply disappointed in the ruling, and concerned about other educators, parents, and students who might not feel able to defend our schools and our libraries if it opens them up to violence and hate. Over the past few weeks, I have prayed long and hard about my path forward, as well as spoken at length with family and friends. I decided I could not give up after the first round. That is why I filed a motion that asks the judge to reconsider her ruling and proposes an amended petition that restates my claims. You can read my motion here. It tells my story. It is important that I continue to fight to protect myself and others from the horrible attacks I have faced, and to show all of our children that we must never give in to bullies.

This battle is taking an enormous toll, to the extent that I will need to take a medical leave from my job in the spring. If I lose, I will be liable for all of the court costs and legal fees related for myself AND those I’m seeking action against. But the cause of standing up against censorship, so that libraries are safe havens for every member of our community, is priceless. I am grateful to everyone who has contributed to my GoFundMe account, making it possible for me to take on this fight and stand up for what’s right.

I will continue to voice concerns about censorship efforts in my community, my state, and our country. We see censorship and book banning happening in communities around the country right now. I will continue to speak out at any further attempts, and in defense of dedicated, hard working educators and librarians. We must all remain vigilant, to protect our childrens’ right to be safe and included in our community and to get a good education. We are all stronger and safer when we join together to speak out against their hate and division. It is time to take a stand.