Pennsylvania School Board President Sworn into Office with Controversial Book
Karen Smith of the Central Bucks School District placed her hand on a sexually explicit book during her inauguration
Controversial Swearing-In
Karen Smith, a Democrat who was re-elected to the Central Bucks school board, was sworn in as the new board president with her hand on a stack of controversial books. The ceremony took place on December 4, following a vote by the board. Smith expressed gratitude to her supporters and promised to listen to the concerns of those who have challenged her.
The ceremony included a tailgate party before the actual swearing-in. Smith's hand was placed on a book titled "Flamer," written by Mike Curato, an award-winning author and artist. The book, released in 2020, is a semi-autobiographical graphic novel that addresses themes of bullying, homosexuality, and explicit content.
Controversy and Challenges
"Flamer" has courted controversy due to its inclusion of LGBTQ content and sexually explicit material. It was listed as one of the most banned books of 2022 by the American Library Association. The book has been challenged in at least 62 schools across the country. Alongside "Flamer," Smith's hand was also placed on books such as "Night" by Elie Wiesel, "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison, "Lily and Dunkin" by Donna Gephart, and "All Boys Aren't Blue" by George M. Johnson.
Silvi Haldipur, a parent in the Central Bucks School District, spoke during the public comment period and expressed her support for the board majority. She mentioned past instances of LGBTQ and antisemitic remarks in the boardroom and highlighted the need for change. With the addition of Smith and four new Democratic members, the board now holds a Democratic majority.
Policy Freezes and Controversy
On the same day as the swearing-in ceremony, the newly elected board members and Smith voted to freeze two policies related to library books that were passed last year. One of the policies allowed residents to challenge books and set criteria for book selection and removal. Critics argued that this policy targeted the LGBTQ community and people of color. The other policy restricted transgender athletes from participating in sports and prohibited teachers from engaging in advocacy activities in the classroom, which some believed was an attack on LGBTQ students and their supporters.
The Central Bucks School District oversees 23 schools and 17,570 students. Smith has not yet responded to requests for comment.
