To the Editor:

It’s about “Book Banning,” not “Book Challenges.”

Let me repeat, Book Banning, Book Banning, Book Banning.

“Don’t say “Gay” in Florida. Don’t say “Book Banning” in Newtown? Nope. It’s not about the euphemism “Book Challenges.” It’s about “Book Banning!” “I don’t like language that deflects fear and conceals the truth,” George Carlin – Euphemisms. The Board of Education chair suggested such use of the euphemism “Book Challenges” is more welcoming to “conversation.”

With all due respect, I disagree. If one is afraid to call it for what it is, one probably knows it’s wrong.

Books are essential tools for instruction in critical thinking. Critical thinking allows one to understand not only the content, but the context of the work. That’s why books such as the Bible, that contains sex, rape, incest, murder, and crucifixion should not be banned, either.

Here’s a unique idea, rather than banning a book for everyone, let’s allow the professionals to be professionals, and if there is a book that a parent believes inappropriate, let the parent be a parent and instruct their child that it’s off the read list. Problem solved.

Finally, over my years of holding political office I have always said that serving on the Board of Education is probably the hardest elected position given the extensive work, complexity and responsibility. So, with that in mind, to the Board of Education I say, “make your job easier.” Don’t waste your time or our taxpayer money on senseless issues such as Book Banning/Burning Fahrenheit 451 political provocations.

We don’t need welcoming “conversations” on the benefits of school segregation, arming students, or decertifying teacher requirements … because there are no such benefits. Likewise, there are no such benefits to burning, banning or burying books. Again, save yourself some time and save the Newtown taxpayer some money.

Please note, these views are my own and not those of any Board, Committee or Commission that I serve on.

Thank you,

Jim Gaston

Newtown