Censoring journalism because the truth makes people uncomfortable only hurts people by leaving them uninformed. Censoring history books for the same reason or because history doesn't conform to a particular viewpoint is especially damaging because it can paint a damaging image of certain groups and can also give students an unrealistic view of history.
One of the bigger threats to the free press is misinformation. People will spread the first semi-truthful fact that they see, especially if it conforms to their view point, sending it to everyone and not bothering to check whether or not it's true. This can not only spread incorrect information, but when people figure out the truth, it will teach people to trust the news less, which encourages the censoring of the news which helps to continue the cycle of half-truths and misinformation.
Violence against journalists is a major thing, not only in this country, but across the world. People are being hunted, assaulted, and murdered for sharing g the truth and for doing their jobs because of misinformation and groups who want to suppress our rights as citizens.
Read more about the threat of book bans here.
Keep your news and information credible by using your sources and sharing them. If you accidentally say something ignorant, you need to know which information was bad. And ask for sources when they aren't given.
There are a lot of ignorant people out there and it usually is because people don't have the resources to become more informed. Tell people you know about their rights and if they have more questions, send them here!
Get involved with your local newspaper or news station. See what you can do to help them out. You can also do your own research and contest book challenges. Encourage other people to read the banned book and fight for what you believe in!
When I hear a book is being challenged, my first question is why? So I encourage you to read as many challenged or banned books as you can get your hands on so that you can better understand why someone might find issue with this book. It's better to form an opinion after you've read it yourself.
If you see someone spreading misinformation, call them out on it. Ask where they got their information and if they fact-checked their research. If you hear a family member saying something you know is wrong, tell them. People won't learn if you don't call them out.
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