Tell Your Lawmakers Pass Freedom to Read Act

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Thanks to the efforts of Michigan voters, Michiganders have seen progress in protecting intellectual freedom in recent years. But there is still more we can do to ensure that our public and district libraries remain bastions of diverse ideas and free expression for all.

What is the Freedom to Read Act?

The Freedom to Read Act, encompassing House Bills 6034 and 6035, is designed to protect and enhance the integrity of public and district libraries across Michigan. This legislation ensures that every Michigander has access to diverse and inclusive library collections, fostering an environment where free speech and the exchange of ideas are paramount.

What does the Freedom to Read Act include?
The comprehensive package of House Bills 6034 and 6035 introduces several essential improvements to current library policies, aligning them with First Amendment values and Michigan’s constitutional mandate.

The Freedom to Read Act will strengthen our libraries by:
• Granting library directors the authority to select, include, and withdraw materials based on professional judgment, free from personal biases.
• Prohibiting the removal of materials based on the religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics of the author or the content’s viewpoint.
• Establishing judicial oversight to ensure compliance and prevent discriminatory practices in material selection.
• Enhancing transparency by requiring advance public notice of key changes to library collections, allowing voters to stay informed.
• Creating a central hub for election information to promote best practices and increase transparency in library operations.
• Providing legal remedies to protect libraries from unlawful removal of materials, ensuring sustained access to diverse information.

Contact your legislators to encourage them to support this important legislation on behalf of all Michigan voters.

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Your Message

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Dear State Legislator,

I am writing to urge you to pass the Freedom to Read Act (House Bills 6034 and 6035).

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Everyone deserves the freedom to read and explore information without bias or censorship. I strongly support this important legislation and ask that you do the same.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

[First Name] [Last Name]

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