LeVar Burton.Photo: Taylor Hill/Getty
LeVar Burtoncalled out the conservative organization Moms for Liberty in his opening remarks at the 74th National Book Awards & Benefit Dinner on Wednesday in New York City.“Before we get going, are there any Moms for Liberty in the house? Moms for Liberty? No? Good. Then hands will not need to be thrown tonight,” he said jokingly.
Moms for Liberty campaigns against the inclusion of certain topics, including LGBTQ issues and race, in school curricula, and its chapters have advocated to remove many books about sexuality and gender from school libraries.The National Book Awards recognize outstanding contributions to literature. It is viewed as one of the most prestigious literary honors in the United States. Burton wasannounced as the new hostof the 2023 ceremony after theNational Book Foundation rescindedinitial hostDrew Barrymore’s invitation. Barrymore received criticism after she announced her decision toresume her talk showduring the SAG-AFTRA strike.
LeVar Burton at the 70th National Book Awards Ceremony & Benefit Dinner in 2019.Theo Wargo/WireImage
Theo Wargo/WireImage
Burton has been a vocal supporter of literary freedom. He was named as the 2023 Honorary Chair of Banned Books Week and promoted literacy as the host of children’s educational programReading Rainbow. In his speech, he noted how freedom “feels especially fraught in this global political moment” and criticizedbook banningand its impacts both writers and readers.
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.“On the home front, we are fighting for control of truth and how we interpret truth in this country,” Burton said. “Books are being banned, words are being silenced, and writers and others who champion books are under attack.”
A selection of banned books.Daniel Boczarski/Getty
Daniel Boczarski/Getty
A number of celebrities have called out book banning this year, includingPink, who teamed up with non-profit PEN America togive away banned booksat her Florida concert stops.Ariana GrandeandGabrielle Unionare among the ones whosigned an open letterdenouncing book bans.
In his speech, Burton explained why he believes “books are under attack."“It’s because they’re so powerful,” he said. “Stories are the tool that enable us to better understand ourselves and, yes, our history. To live over the course of a few pages in the experiences of another and to create a world where we can all be free.”
source: people.com
