Why Was And Tango Makes Three Banned?
Initially a humble children's book, And Tango Makes Three has found itself at the center of controversy, facing bans in several schools and libraries across the United States. Many were surprised to learn of its existence, as the banning of this particular story raises questions about freedom of speech, the interpretation of children's literature, and societal attitudes towards homosexual relationships and adoption by gay couples.
The Controversial Book
And Tango Makes Three is author Peter Parnell and illustrator Henry Cole's creation, published in 2005. The story follows two male penguins, Roy and Melvin, who live at the Central Park Zoo in New York City. When their female companion goes on an extended leave, Roy and Melvin share incubation duties for an egg. After hatching, they raise the chick who they nickname Psalm. This simple tale became a significant symbol for advocacy of gay adoption and the rights of LGBTQ couples to raise children.
The Reasons Behind the Ban
The list of reasons given for banning the book is varied and often rooted in the broader cultural debates surrounding same-sex parenting and LGBTQ rights. One of the prominent arguments against it is the explicit portrayal of homosexual relationships, which some view as inappropriate for children. Additionally, there are concerns about the book's potential to affect young readers' perceptions of non-traditional families, leading to discussions about the appropriateness of exposing children to diverse family structures at a young age.
The Broader Context of Banning Books
The banning of And Tango Makes Three is intertwined with a larger conversation about censorship and the accessibility of literature. School districts and library boards across the country have faced increasing pressure to curb or eliminate what they consider to be controversial or inappropriate material from their collections. Underlying these decisions are often ideological tensions and the belief that children need to be protected from gender non-conformity, non-traditional family structures, and diverse sexual orientations.
Support and Advocacy
Support for the book has been strong and vocal. Advocacy groups, educators, and parents who wish to make books like And Tango Makes Three accessible to children have actively fought against censorship. These supporters highlight the educational value of exposing children to diverse narratives and the importance of promoting acceptance and understanding. They argue that books like this help children develop empathy and a broader worldview, which are vital skills for navigating an increasingly diverse and complex society.
Impact and Relevance
The continued relevance of And Tango Makes Three and the controversies surrounding it reflect the ongoing discussions about gender, sexuality, and family in contemporary society. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of literature in shaping societal attitudes and the responsibility educators and community leaders have in curating reading material for young people.
Conclusion
While bans on books like And Tango Makes Three continue to occur, the story and themes of this children's book remain significant. Its banning highlights the complex and often contentious debates surrounding the role of literature in education and the challenges of addressing diverse and often conflicting viewpoints. The book's continued popularity and the robust support it garners underscore the ongoing importance of accessible, inclusive literature for children.