Date

5-2026

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Liberal Studies

Major

Liberal Studies

First Advisor

Paoze Thao

Abstract

Censorship of diverse literature has been on the rise outside California, particularly in public schools in states like Florida and Texas. In response, this senior capstone research examines the effects of this censorship on students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Drawing from a literature review and ethnographic interviews with two school board members and teachers, the results indicate that censorship of diverse literature negatively impacts K-8 students by reducing their opportunities to learn about diversity and multiple perspectives. Recognizing these effects prompts a closer investigation into the mechanisms and motivations behind the censorship of such books. State laws most often determine which curriculum schools can use. Consequently, it becomes essential to consider what steps can be taken to prevent or stop this censorship.

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