Arrr! Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds be bellowin' at the scurvy media's "book ban" tale: 'Tis nought but a blasted distraction!
2023-10-27
Arr, Governor Kim Reynolds be standin' tall and holdin' fast against them landlubber critics o' the law what be restrictin' improper tomes in our learnin' dens! At the press meetin', she be showin' no fear, ready t' defend her decision with all her might!
Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa responded strongly to critics of the state's laws that restrict certain books in schools. She expressed her frustration during a press conference, calling the criticism a "damn distraction." Reynolds argued that the law is clear and dismissed the notion that it constitutes a book ban. She emphasized that parents who want their children to have access to certain books can simply purchase them, but it should not be the responsibility of teachers or schools to provide those materials. Reynolds suggested that those who cannot understand this distinction should reconsider what they believe is appropriate for children. The law, signed in May, limits sexually explicit books from public school libraries. It defines sexual acts as various forms of penetration, contact, ejaculation, and touching of genitals or anus. Reynolds also mentioned her attempt to read excerpts from a controversial book during an interview, which the news station refused to air due to discomfort. She questioned why anyone would think it is acceptable for children to be exposed to such content. Reynolds, as a grandmother and parent, emphasized the importance of education and the need for children to focus on reading, math, science, and civics. The law also prohibits discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools up to the sixth grade.