SPEAK

Pornography is the depiction of sexual behavior that is intended to arouse sexual excitement in its audience. (Link)

Wesley Scroggins of Springfield, MO is the Voice of the Day for his hometown paper the News-Leader (Link). What Mr. Scroggins is using his voice to do is to warn parents of the dangers of their school curriculum which apparently includes a book called SPEAK by Laurie Halse Anderson.

Now I’m not sure what bothers me more:

That Mr. Scroggins has described SPEAK as “soft pornography” which would mean that he finds the rape of a young girl arousing- or that he complete misses the point of the book.

SPEAK does not set out to make rape sexy or exciting, instead it sensitively explores the ramifications of victimization, and provides a relatable character that engenders sympathy and support. For many of the girls (and boys) who are victims of rape and unwanted sexual acts SPEAK lets them know they are not alone.

SPEAK should be read, not banned.

Scroggins does make one point that I agree with “Parents, it is time you get involved!”

If you are a parent buy SPEAK, read it, pass it along to your children, talk about it. Don’t let small minded individuals determine what appropriate reading for your child is.

If you are a student- talk to your parents. They need to know why this is an important book, and why they should be fighting for it.

SPEAK for SPEAK.

Write to the superintendent of the Republic School District, Dr. Vern Minor, or to the high school principal, Darren Harris.

Write to the editor of the News-Leader.

And support Speak and Laurie Halse Anderson here.