The following letter to Newtown High School Students has been received for publication by The Newtown Bee:

To the Students of Newtown High,

This letter is for you. Regardless of the outcome of this book challenge, and the other challenges that will come, there are things I need you to know.

Remember you have agency. It’s hard to have others making decisions for you. But your life is in your hands. You have a voice. Use it. Don’t let anyone silence you. Let it out. Speak it, sing it, write it, paint it, dance it. Censorship is fought with expression. That is your first amendment right, no matter your age or station.

Remember you are the future. Remember this moment. Remember how you feel. Remember what everyone said. Soon you will be an adult member of the community. What rights will you uphold? What injustices will you fight to repair? Who else in your community has been relegated to the margins? How can you help them? Lead with facts and compassion.

And above all else, know this: You deserve to be here. No matter who you are, what you believe, or who you love. When I was young, it was implied that there was no room in this world for someone like me. Not unless I followed their rules. I tried to be the person I thought everyone wanted me to be, and it broke me. Don’t do that. Don’t let anyone use shame to dictate how you should live your life. I almost lost my life to that lie. But I survived, and in living my truth, I have found the greatest joy. Flamer is my truth and my joy. It may make some people uncomfortable, but their comfort is NOTHING compared to your safety and happiness.

Remember: They can ban my book, but no one has the right to ban YOU.

Thank you

Mike Curato

Author and illustrator of Flamer